Head of Shanghai's free-trade zone, Dai Haibo, to step down amid graft probe
Loss of experienced technocrat Dai Haibo would be another blow for struggling Shanghai project
The de facto head of Shanghai's free-trade zone is expected to step down, five separate sources have said, likely striking another blow to the already struggling economic project ahead of its first anniversary.
Dai Haibo, the zone's executive deputy director overseeing daily operations, was suspected of disciplinary violations, said the sources, which included Shanghai government officials. Dai would be forced to step down, they said.
"A final verdict has yet to be given, but it's almost certain that he will be at least suspended from the job temporarily," said one official.
"It's not clear whether he will face further punishment."
Dai, 52, might be allowed to remain in his other main role as deputy secretary general of the municipal government, sources said. He is also in charge of a local taskforce on port affairs.
The administrative committee of the trade zone could not be reached for comment.