Ex-president of Interpol pleads guilty to bribery

Meng Hongwei, former vice-minister of public security and the ex-president of Interpol, pleaded guilty to accepting a bribe of 14.46 million yuan ($2.1 million) during his trial at the Tianjin No 1 Intermediate People's Court on Thursday.

Meng, also former head of China Coast Guard, was charged with taking advantage of the perks and power associated with his posts to get others jobs and promotions in return for bribes paid either in cash or other assets.

During the trial, the court fully listened to the defense statements of Meng and his lawyer to protect his legitimate rights, court officials said.

According to the court, Meng showed repentance during the hearing, and the verdict will be announced at a later date.

Meng, 65, was elected president of Interpol, based in Lyon, France, in 2016. He was the first Chinese to take the post.