Ex-lawmaker faces court

Heavy turnout for trial of alleged mafia-style gang boss

CHONGQING: Former district legislator and business tycoon Chen Mingliang, accused of running a mafia-style gang, was brought for his trial under heavy security, as hundreds of residents crowded the gates of the court to witness the proceedings yesterday.

Chen, 52, with his 34-member gang, faces 16 charges of abetting prostitution, drug trafficking, murder and corruption.