Chongqing billionaire on trial over crippling taxi strike, bribery

A billionaire legislator accused of being a triad boss went on trial yesterday in Chongqing, along with 27 of his followers and three officials who allegedly provided protection for his mafia-like activities.

In a trial expected to last five days, Li Qiang, one of 14 alleged triad bosses arrested in the city since late June, and his gang went on trial at the Chongqing Municipal No5 Intermediate People's Court.

Handcuffed and clad in an orange vest, Li appeared in low spirits, the Xinmin Evening News, based in Shanghai, reported.

'The trial opened too soon. My lawyer needs more time to produce evidence,' Li, 51, complained in a faint voice. Dubbed the second-wealthiest man in Banan district, Li was a deputy to the Chongqing Municipal People's Congress before his arrest in late July.

The businessman faces nine charges, for organising and leading criminal gangs, operating illegal businesses, disrupting public transport, disturbing public order, concealing accounting records, bribery and tax evasion, Xinhua said.

Li had admitted operating illegal businesses and concealing accounting records, but had pleaded not guilty to organising and leading criminal gangs, saying he was either not aware of the facts in the indictment or had been informed by subordinates only after the charges were filed, the report said.