Judicial authorities are investigating Dai Yuqing, former president of Guangzhou Daily, on suspicion of taking bribes, Xinhua News Agency reported Wednesday.

Dai, 57, is alleged to have abused his power between 2006 and 2011 to promote unqualified people and help others obtain ad contracts, the Party discipline watchdog in Guangzhou said.

Seven employees at the paper and affiliated companies are also under investigation, Xinhua reported.