JOEL OLADELE, Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a Chinese national accused of masterminding a $245 million Ponzi scheme and repatriated him to his home country for prosecution.
The suspect, identified as Xu Qing, was apprehended by operatives of the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja following intelligence-led operations that tracked his movement to Ogun State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the police said the arrest and subsequent handover were carried out in response to a formal request from Chinese authorities.
According to the statement, the suspect had been declared wanted in Beijing over his alleged role in a large-scale financial fraud involving illegal mobilisation of public funds estimated at over $245 million.
Investigations revealed that Xu fled China on November 5, 2024, in a bid to evade arrest, prompting authorities in Qingdao to issue a warrant against him the following year.
Acting on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, INTERPOL operatives traced the fugitive to a factory in Olowotedo, Siun area of Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, where he was arrested on April 24, 2026.
He was subsequently repatriated to China on April 28, 2026, under existing bilateral policing arrangements to face trial for the alleged offences.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, said the operation underscored Nigeria’s commitment to global efforts against transnational organised crime.
“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,” the police said.
The IGP also urged businesses and employers in Nigeria to carry out proper background checks before engaging foreign nationals, stressing the importance of due diligence in preventing criminal infiltration.
The police added that collaboration with international law enforcement agencies would continue to be strengthened to track and apprehend suspects involved in cross-border crimes.
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