China punishes 60 people including vice mayor for disco fire in Shenzhen

GUANGZHOU, China — China has punished 60 people deemed responsible for a blaze at the “King of the Dancers” disco that killed 44 people in the southern boomtown of Shenzhen.

A Web site for the country’s State Council, or Cabinet, said Tuesday that 35 people, including the club’s boss have faced criminal charges after the fire at the unlicensed nightclub one year ago. No details were given on the punishment but it was earlier announced a police chief and a fire official were jailed for 13 years and six years, respectively.

The government says 25 officials — including Vice Mayor Li Ming — were disciplined within the Communist Party and government.

The blaze started when a fireworks show ignited the ceiling in the crowded club, causing a stampede.