An ex-chief official was sentenced to life in prison on charges of embezzlement, corruption, receiving bribes and doing illegal business deals while in office, the anhuinews.com reported Thursday.

Geng Xiaojun, former chief officer of the Huangshan Landscape Bureau, bought 37 commercial properties worth of 22.2 million yuan and one house during four years in office. He also aboused his power and received bribes in many projects, according to the report.

Geng will also face a lifetime ban on political rights. And all his property will be confiscated, the Huangshan Intermediate People's Court announced on May 18.