Wife of disgraced Chinese political leader charged with Heywood murder

Added by Nigel Shelbourne on July 26, 2012

Gu Kailai, wife of disgraced Chinese political leader Bo Xilai, on Thursday was charged with intentional homicide of UK businessman Neil Heywood.

Heywood was found dead in a hotel on November 15, 2011, triggering Bo Xilai’s downfall in a Chinese political scandal.

The initial investigation said Heywood dies as a result of excessive drinking; however, the local government in Anhui province announced in April that it was investigating Bo’s wife in connection with the case.

Today the Chinese state run news agency Xinhua reported both Gu Kailai and Bo Xilai have been charged with intentional homicide. The agency reported the two accused may have poisoned Heywood over economic interests – no further details were available.

Bo Xilai’s downfall started with police chief Wang Lijun, fled to the US consulate, reportedly seeking asylum after a conflict with Bo Xilais regarding police chief’s investigation into Heywood’s death

The Hefei Intermediate People’s Court has not yet announced a trial date.