INTERPOL NCB Abuja leads operation as IGP Disu warns against transnational financial crime’
By Rejoice Peterside
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 massive Ponzi scheme linked to illegal public deposits estimated at $245 million.
The Force Public Relations Office confirmed that the operation followed a formal request from Chinese authorities, who declared the suspect wanted in connection with large-scale financial fraud activities in Beijing.
According to police findings, Xu Qing allegedly fled China to Nigeria on November 5, 2024, in a bid to evade arrest after authorities intensified investigations into the alleged scheme. A warrant for his arrest was subsequently issued on November 12, 2025, by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of the Qingdao Public Security Bureau.
Acting on intelligence-led surveillance, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja tracked and arrested the suspect on April 24, 2026, at a factory located in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The operation was carried out after weeks of coordinated intelligence gathering and monitoring of the suspect’s movements within Nigeria.
Following his arrest, the fugitive was formally handed over to Chinese authorities and repatriated on April 28, 2026, under bilateral police cooperation arrangements to face prosecution for financial crimes.
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the successful operation, describing it as a reflection of the Nigeria Police Force’s growing capacity in tackling transnational organized crime.
He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to strengthening international law enforcement cooperation, particularly in combating financial fraud, cybercrime, and cross border criminal activities.
The IGP also warned that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives or individuals attempting to evade justice from other jurisdictions.
He further advised Nigerian businesses and employers to carry out proper due diligence, including background checks through relevant security agencies, before engaging foreign nationals in employment or business partnerships.
According to him, such preventive measures are necessary to reduce exposure to financial risks and international criminal infiltration.
The Nigeria Police Force said it remains committed to working closely with international partners to ensure that fugitives and transnational criminals are tracked, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Police authorities added that the successful repatriation demonstrates Nigeria’s strengthened role in global policing cooperation and its resolve to combat organized financial crime.
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