国内英语新闻：Ex-Beijing official accused of corruption

A former top official from Beijing is facing prosecution for taking bribes from property developers, advertising companies and other businesses, a local newspaper reported Thursday.

Zhou Liangluo, 46, former head of Haidian district, the city's thriving university and hi-tech hub, received bribes totaling 16 million yuan ($2.2 million) from 10 businesses and individuals, the Beijing Times reported.

Caijing magazine said on its website last month that Zhou was apparently uncovered when authorities were investigating Liu Zhihua - the former vice-mayor of Beijing - for alleged corruption and finding out that a real estate developer Liu Jun had been bribing the two.

However, there is so far no evidence proving the alleged links.

Investigators last month handed Zhou's case to a city court for trial.

His wife, Lu Xiaodan, also faces charges of taking more than 8 million yuan in bribes, the paper said.

Beijing has enjoyed an influx of investment over recent years, partly spurred by its preparations to host the Olympics Games.

Zhou's posts in Haidian, and before that in Chaoyang district, gave him a big say over lucrative projects.

The report did not say when Zhou and Lu are to be tried or how they are expected to plead to the possible charges.