Accused serial killer stands trial

Hearing closed over 'cruel' way female victims died, official says

The trial of suspected serial killer Gao Chengyong got underway on Tuesday behind closed doors in Gansu province.

Baiyin Intermediate People's Court had not issued a statement on the case as of 6 pm, and it was unknown whether Gao, 52, has pleaded guilty to any of the charges he faces, including murder, rape, robbery and mutilation of a corpse.