Segun Atanda/
The Nigeria Police Force has arrested and repatriated a Chinese national, Xu Qing, accused of masterminding a Ponzi scheme involving more than $245 million, after tracking him to a concealed location in Ogun State.
The suspect, who was declared wanted by Chinese authorities, allegedly disguised his presence by operating from a factory in a remote part of Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, specifically within Olowotedo in Siun Village.
Police investigators say the choice of location was deliberate, aimed at avoiding detection while evading arrest over the massive fraud.
According to the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja, Xu Qing fled China on November 5, 2024 shortly before a warrant was issued for his arrest in connection with what authorities described as the illegal absorption of public deposits through a Ponzi scheme valued at over $245,000,000.
Following sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance, operatives traced the fugitive to the Ogun facility, where he had reportedly blended into business operations to mask his identity.
He was arrested on April 24, 2026 and subsequently repatriated to the People’s Republic of China on April 28, 2026 to face prosecution.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, said the operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to international law enforcement collaboration and signals that the country will not serve as a refuge for financial crime suspects.
He also urged Nigerian businesses to strengthen due diligence processes when engaging foreign nationals, including verifying identities through security agencies.
The police said the arrest highlights growing cooperation between Nigeria and global partners in tackling transnational organised crime, particularly financial fraud schemes that exploit international borders.
0
