Liu Yaohua, chief of the Public Security Bureau of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, speaks at the press conference in the region's capital of Urumqi, northwest China, on March 25, 2008. Liu on Monday refuted Urumqi bus blast rumors, describing the rumor as "sheer nonsense". (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    URUMQI, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Police have detained individuals suspected of spreading Urumqi bus blast rumors, said an official with the Public Security Bureau of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Tuesday.

    Liu Yaohua, the bureau chief, told a news conference that it's business as usual in Xinjiang, and the bus blast rumor is just "sheer nonsense."

    Liu said that subversive leaflets appeared in the region's capital city Urumqi, aiming to fabricate rumors and sabotage social stability.

    He said Xinjiang has enjoyed political stability, economic growth, ethnic unity and social harmony over these years. It is right in the best development stage.

    He said the local police have the confidence and the ability to maintain social stability in Xinjiang.