Police repatriate Chinese fugitive over $245m fraud
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Nigerian Police have repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Xu Qing, to China over alleged involvement in a $245 million Ponzi scheme.
- Xu Qing fled China to Nigeria to evade arrest after being declared wanted by Chinese authorities.
- The Inspector-General of Police reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to international cooperation against transnational crime.
The Nigeria Police Force, in a significant display of international cooperation, has successfully arrested and repatriated Xu Qing, a Chinese national wanted for his alleged role in a massive $245 million Ponzi scheme. This operation, executed through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau Abuja, underscores Nigeria's commitment to combating transnational organized crime and ensuring the country does not become a haven for fugitives.
National Central Bureau Abuja, has successfully arrested and repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Xu Qing, to the Peopleโs Republic of China to face charges related to large-scale illegal absorption of public deposits through a Ponzi scheme.
The fugitive had sought refuge in Nigeria after fleeing China, but sustained surveillance and intelligence gathering by INTERPOL operatives led to his apprehension at a factory in Ogun State. His subsequent repatriation to the People's Republic of China demonstrates the effectiveness of bilateral police cooperation arrangements in bringing criminals to justice, regardless of their location.
Investigations revealed that the suspect fled China to Nigeria on 5th November 2024 in an attempt to evade arrest, following which a warrant was issued against him on 12th November 2025 by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of Qingdao Public Security.
Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has used this case to reiterate the force's dedication to strengthening international collaborations. He also issued a crucial advisory to Nigerian employers and businesses, urging them to conduct thorough due diligence, including police background checks, before engaging foreign nationals. This proactive measure aims to prevent future occurrences and safeguard against individuals seeking to exploit the Nigerian business environment for illicit activities.
The suspect was repatriated to the Peopleโs Republic of China on 28th April 2026 through bilateral police cooperation arrangements to face prosecution for the offences.
This successful operation not only highlights the Nigeria Police Force's capability in handling complex international cases but also sends a clear message that Nigeria is an active partner in the global fight against financial fraud and organized crime. The repatriation of Xu Qing is a testament to the robust working relationship between Nigerian law enforcement and international policing bodies.
The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to combating transnational crime and ensuring that Nigeria does not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.