The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arrested and repatriated a Chinese national, Xu Qing, over his alleged involvement in a $245 million Ponzi scheme, in a move that underscores growing international cooperation against transnational financial crimes.
The suspect was apprehended by operatives of the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja following a formal request from authorities in the People’s Republic of China, where he had been declared wanted for large-scale illegal absorption of public deposits.
Police investigations revealed that Xu fled China to Nigeria on November 5, 2024, in a bid to evade arrest. A warrant for his arrest was subsequently issued on November 12, 2025, by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of Qingdao Public Security.
Acting on intelligence and sustained surveillance, INTERPOL NCB Abuja operatives tracked and arrested the fugitive at a factory in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State on April 24, 2026. He was later repatriated to China on April 28, 2026, to face prosecution.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to strengthening international policing collaboration to combat transnational organised crime.
He also urged Nigerian employers and business owners to carry out due diligence, including police background checks, before engaging foreign nationals in business or employment relationships.
The NPF reiterated its resolve to ensure that Nigeria does not serve as a safe haven for fugitives, while continuing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating across borders.
