Ao Man Long, Secretary for Transport and Public Works of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR), has been detained for alleged involvement in bribe taking and irregular financial activities.

A press release issued by the Information Bureau said Thursday that Edmund Ho Hau Hah, the region's chief executive, has suggested that the central government remove Ao Man Long from official duties.

It said the official was detained on late Wednesday after an intensive investigation conducted by the Commission Against Corruption.

A statement issued by the MSAR government Thursday stressed that the government always strictly requests officials at all levels to behave honestly in performing their official duties.

"It (the government) is strictly against any abuse of power for personal gain," said the statement.

Macao does not allow anyone to violate the law, it said.

It added that Ao's case reflects the MSAR government's determination in building a clean and incorruptible society.

Officials at all levels shall continue to implement policies legally and to serve the community to promote the development of the MSAR, it said.

Editor: Donald