A total of 4,309 officials were punished for violating austerity rules in 3,115 cases in April, according to China's top anti-graft body.

An article posted on the website of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) said 11,903 cases were reported in the first four months of this year, with 16,545 officials punished.

The CPC central leadership launched a frugality campaign in December 2012, adopting rules against improper distribution of subsidies or material benefits, inappropriate use of official vehicles, and illicit gift giving and receiving.

(Xinhua News Agency May 22, 2016)