From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has arrested and repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Xu Qing, to the People’s Republic of China over his alleged involvement in a large-scale Ponzi scheme estimated at over $245 million.
A statement signed on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, stated that the operation followed a formal request from Chinese authorities, who declared the suspect wanted in Beijing for allegedly orchestrating the illegal absorption of public deposits through a fraudulent investment scheme.
Investigations revealed that Xu Qing fled China to Nigeria on November 5, 2024, in an attempt to evade arrest as authorities intensified probes into the alleged financial fraud. A warrant of arrest was subsequently issued against him on November 12, 2025, by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of the Qingdao Public Security Bureau.
Acting on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance operations, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja tracked the suspect to a factory located in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, where he was arrested on April 24, 2026.
Following his arrest, the fugitive was repatriated to China on April 28, 2026, through coordinated bilateral police cooperation arrangements to face prosecution for the alleged offences.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening international collaboration in tackling transnational organised crime.
He stressed that Nigeria would not serve as a safe haven for fugitives, noting that the Force remains resolute in its efforts to support global justice systems through intelligence sharing and cross-border operational partnerships.
The IGP also advised Nigerian businesses and employers to conduct proper due diligence, including background checks through relevant security agencies, before engaging foreign nationals in business or employment arrangements.
According to the Force Public Relations Office, the successful arrest and repatriation demonstrate Nigeria’s growing capacity and resolve to combat transnational financial crimes and support international efforts against fraud networks operating across borders.
