Nigeria Police Force has carried out a major international crime breakthrough after arresting and repatriating a Chinese fugitive linked to a $245 million Ponzi scheme.
The suspect, Xu Qing, was returned to China to face prosecution following a coordinated INTERPOL-led operation involving Nigerian and Chinese authorities.
The development has been described as a strong signal of Nigeria’s growing role in global anti-fraud enforcement.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect had fled China in an attempt to avoid arrest after being declared wanted over large-scale financial fraud.
However, he was later tracked down in Nigeria through sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance operations.
According to police sources, Xu Qing was arrested at a factory located in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The arrest was carried out on 24 April 2026 by operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja after months of coordinated tracking efforts.
He was subsequently repatriated to China on 28 April 2026 under established bilateral police cooperation arrangements.
Investigations revealed that the suspect was wanted by Chinese authorities for his alleged role in “large-scale illegal absorption of public deposits through a Ponzi scheme”.
The financial fraud is estimated to have exceeded $245 million, involving victims who were reportedly deceived into investing in fake schemes.
The arrest followed a formal request from Chinese authorities, who had earlier issued a warrant for his arrest through the Shinan Sub-Bureau of Qingdao Public Security.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to international policing cooperation.
He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force will not allow the country to become a safe haven for fugitives or transnational criminals.
Furthermore, the IGP advised Nigerian businesses and employers to carry out strict background checks before engaging foreign nationals.
He emphasized that due diligence remains essential in preventing exposure to financial and security risks.
In addition, the Force reiterated its resolve to strengthen global partnerships in tackling organised financial crimes.
