Technology dovetails with investigative nous

Yang Kai is always impressed by the passion shown by his younger colleagues and their understanding of how new technology can assist in the fight against corruption.

Even though he has been an anti-graft investigator for more than 20 years, Yang believes that it's important to learn from his younger colleagues, because "corruption has changed and multiplied in tandem with the rapid development of the country". He said the growth of the internet offers new avenues for corruption, and he looks to his junior colleagues to use their skills to solve cases.

"I find it difficult to use technology to collect evidence. So, to learn these techniques I encourage my younger colleagues to participate in educational programs - after all, they have a better understanding of the technology. Later, we have interactive sessions where the senior members of the team learn from the younger officers," said the 46-year-old from the procuratorate in Beijing's Dongcheng district.

A technical office has been set up to allow the investigators to search for information online. "We urge them to use big data and instant-messaging services to collect and analyze information."

The process is a two-way street, and Yang's long service enables him to spot clues that his less-experienced colleagues may miss.

Wang Enze, 26, said the senior investigators are masters of detecting illegal activity from a few simple clues.

"It will take us (junior investigators) a long time to master those skills," he said.

Both Wang and Yang have worked with members of the CPC's disciplinary department to investigate major cases, and they have witnessed a renewed intensity since 2012.

"Before, two investigators could handle cases concerning low-level officials, but now the cases are becoming increasingly complicated. Many involve higher-ranking officials, so four or five investigators are required to deal with them," Wang said.

Before, Wang rarely worked outside Beijing, but for the past three months he has made weekly visits to the port city of Tianjin to investigate a case involving a high-ranking official.

"That has shown the official the urgency of the anti-corruption drive and made him realize that the Party's self-discipline is the top priority," he said.