A high-ranking Chinese military general is under investigation for graft. This is the first highest active military official to be involved in a corruption probe since Chinese President Xi Jinping commenced his war against corruption upon assuming office in 2013.

China's defense ministry said on Thursday that General Wang Jianping, deputy chief of staff with the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission (CMC), has been placed under investigation for allegedly taking bribes by selling military promotions

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Defense ministry spokesman Yang Yujun confirmed on Thursday that Wang was the topmost serving general, so far, to be probed for graft under President Xi's anti-corruption campaign.

Top Level Officials

President Xi's anti-corruption drive has netted top level military officials in recent years including 40 retired and some active military officers.

Wang, who was working directly under Xi at the CMC, is the latest active military officer to be investigated for corruption.

Wang, 62, was reportedly captured in Chengdu, Sichuan province in August this year.

His secretary, wife, and former aide Su Haihui have also been arrested and are set to face interrogation.

Active Serving General

"Wang was arrested by military prosecutors in Chengdu while on an inspection trip. His wife and secretary were taken away in Beijing," Yang confirmed to reporters.

Wang is the first active serving general who has fallen from grace. He was an ally of Zhou Yongkang, China's former security chief, who is currently serving a sentence for corruption.

President Xi launched a sweeping anti-corruption campaign upon assuming the presidency three years ago and so far, thousands of government and military personnel have been terminated, punished, and incarcerated with all their assets confiscated by the government. 

TagsCentral Military Commission, President Xi Jinping, anti-corruption campaign, General Wang Jianping, china, People's Liberation Army