State media have reported mass arrests in both regions. Those executed in Xinjiang have included convicted separatists. Xinjiang television showed huge crowds at public sentencing rallies, with the condemned paraded on trucks before their execution. Since 1983, there have been 4 Strike Hard campaigns in China, which in sheer numbers has long led the world in executions. The Communist party hopes the campaign will shore up public confidence in its ability to keep crime rates under control.
Chinese leaders regard executions as an effective deterrent to crime.
The death penalty also enjoys widespread support among Chinese who feel their streets have grown less safe in 2 decades of economic reforms that have thrown millions out of work. Amnesty International and other human rights groups say more than 500 people have been executed since April 11. He asked not be named. China keeps countrywide execution figures a secret and has not said how many have been killed. The campaign appears to be gaining steam.