China jails ex-police chief

A Chinese court sentences ex police chief, at the centre of China's biggest political scandal in decades, to 15 years in jail.

Wang Lijung was found guilty on four charges, including seeking to cover up the murder of British businessman, Neil Heywood, by fallen politician Bo Xilai's wife.

State television released video of the court hearing.

Wang spoke to apologise.

(SOUNDBITE) (Mandarin) EX-POLICE CHIEF OF CHONGQING MUNICIPALITY WANG LIJUN SAYING:

"I express my regrets to the court about the crimes I committed. I will use the rest of my life to repent and make it up to the system and to the sorrow and regrets I caused for people who care about me."

Chinese residents had mixed views on the sentence.

(SOUNDBITE)(Mandarin) I.T. WORKER LEO ZHANG SAYING:

"I think it should have been less than 15 years. The sentence was too severe. I feel it should have been lighter. As I just said, in my opinion his contribution should have counted for more"

(SOUNDBITE)(Mandarin) BEIJING RESIDENT MR. DING SAYING:

"They give these corrupt officials too light sentences. They should sentence them harshly. They embezzle so much, what else should we do but execute them?"

The verdict moves the party closer to a formal decision on dealing with Bo.

His downfall has shaken a leadership handover due at a party congress as early as next month.