BEIJING - The investigation in Zhou Yongkang's case is under way and needs time to finish the in-depth process, China's vice minister of justice Zhang Sujun said Wednesday.

The investigation is in accordance with laws and regulations and is paying close attention to evidence, Zhang said at a press conference when answering a question about Zhou Yongkang's case.

"It needs a process (to do so)....All journalists and people in the country, including me, are interested in the case. I believe that related department will definitely publicize the case in an appropriate measure and an appropriate channel after the investigation comes to a close," Zhang said.

Zhou was a former member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. He was suspected of serious disciplinary violation and is now investigated by the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection.

Zhang added that the investigation, which is being carried out in a serious, responsible, comprehensive and systematic manner, pays attention to evidence, showing the spirit of rule of law and equality of every person before the law.

"The case can strengthen our confidence in rule of law," Zhang said.