China's state media say the government has closed down 16 websites, arrested six people, and punished two social media sites for circulating rumors about a coup.

Xinhua said late Friday the crackdown came after a surge in online rumors about a coup following the dismissal of a popular politician – Bo Xilai – leader of the city of Chongqing.

Analysts say the clampdown underscores China's anxieties over a public that is wired to the Internet and eager to discuss political events despite censorship and threats of punishment.