Zhang Jinbiao has been removed from his post as Party chief of Hotan prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and expelled from the Party over graft issues, the Xinjiang Commission for Discipline Inspection said on Sunday.

The watchdog said Zhang, 53, was found to have seriously violated political discipline and rules and did not perform his duty to combat terrorism and maintain stability, which had serious consequences.

Zhang violated Party rules and accepted cash or gifts. He also violated Party discipline by having inappropriate sexual relationships, the commission said.

According to the watchdog, he used his position to benefit others in enterprise management, and then extorted them and accepted huge bribes paid either in cash or property.

The commission said Zhang had a weak sense of responsibility and was derelict in his duty with regard to many acts of violence and terrorist attacks in Xinjiang. He also lost his ideals and faith, and seriously violated the Party's code of conduct, it added.

Zhang's case has been transferred to judicial authorities for further investigation.

Since late 2012, when China's new leadership took office, the country has conducted a sweeping drive to fight corruption.

According to the top anti-graft watchdog, more than 150 officials at ministerial level or above have been placed under investigation for corruption.

zhangyan1@chinadaily.com.cn