In Depth: Investigators Find City’s Metro System Is Riddled With Graft

Yao Kai (left) and Chen Hua. Photo: Chuzhou Intermediate People’s Court

When Hefei businessman Cheng Dong learned a metro station would be built close to his car dealership, he decided to do something about it.

His solution? Over 35 million yuan ($4.8 million) in bribes given to local metro construction boss ex-vice mayor Yao Kai, according to a source who attended Cheng’s trial in January. The bribes were paid mostly in dealership shares and some cash.

Cheng’s case came to light amid an intensifying corruption crackdown within Hefei’s urban rail system, which has led to the downfall of at least six senior officials since 2022, including Yao.