Singapore Says 52 Citizens Arrested in China Crackdown on Pyramid Schemes

Chinese authorities have arrested 52 Singaporean citizens in Guangxi during a police operation targeting pyramid schemes and related crimes, Singapore’s Foreign Ministry said.

Foreign Minister Sim Ann said Singapore’s foreign ministry and police were working with Chinese authorities to obtain more information. The Singaporean government is providing consular assistance to those detained.

Singapore’s embassy in Beijing and its consulate general in Guangzhou have visited the detainees three times. Officials checked their condition, relayed requests and messages from family members, and helped address administrative matters.

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On behalf of the police, I want to reiterate that Singapore citizens should be cautious when considering business or investment schemes, whether overseas or at home. This applies particularly to schemes involving the recruitment of participants, large upfront payments or promises of unusually high returns.

“On behalf of the police, I want to reiterate that Singapore citizens should be cautious when considering business or investment schemes, whether overseas or at home. This applies particularly to schemes involving the recruitment of participants, large upfront payments or promises of unusually high returns,” Sim said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Chinese police investigate and handle crimes committed by foreign nationals in China according to law, while respecting and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of those involved.

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Police investigate and handle crimes committed by foreign nationals in China according to law, while fully respecting and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of the persons involved.