China charges alleged scam kingpin Chen Zhi with intentional injury: report

Chinese prosecutors have leveled new charges of intentional injury against alleged scam network mastermind Chen Zhi, potentially exposing him to the death penalty. Chen, 38, was extradited from Cambodia to China six months prior and formally arrested on July 6, according to Chinese business magazine Caixin.

Chen founded the Cambodian conglomerate Prince Group, which authorities claim was linked to an extensive online scam network. Caixin reported that prosecutors have dropped a previous charge of concealing criminal proceeds but have added charges of copyright infringement and intentional injury. Under China's criminal law, intentionally inflicting bodily injury that results in death or severe harm through especially cruel means can be punishable by a prison sentence of no less than 10 years, and potentially execution.

Chen Zhi is also a wanted figure in the United States, where prosecutors allege he was involved in running one of Asia's largest transnational criminal organizations. The case highlights the growing international efforts to combat sophisticated online fraud operations.