TDThe Nigeria Police Force has successfully arrested and repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Xu Qing, wanted for orchestrating a massive Ponzi scheme valued at over $245 million.
This was according to a statement from the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja.
The operation followed a formal request from Chinese authorities, who declared Xu wanted in Beijing for his alleged role in the large-scale illegal absorption of public deposits.
Timeline of Events
Investigations revealed that Xu fled China to Nigeria on November 5, 2024, in an attempt to evade arrest.
A warrant was subsequently issued against him on November 12, 2025, by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of Qingdao Public Security.
Acting on intelligence and sustained surveillance, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja tracked the fugitive.
They found him at a factory in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.
He was arrested at the factory on April 24, 2026.
Xu would later be repatriated to China on April 28, 2026, under bilateral police cooperation arrangements.
He will face prosecution for financial fraud and related offences.
Police Statement
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation in combating transnational organised crime.
The IGP stated: “Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to combating transnational crime and ensuring justice across borders.”
He further advised Nigerian employers and business entities to conduct thorough due diligence, including background checks through the police, before engaging foreign nationals in business or employment relationships.
Global Context
The arrest highlights Nigeria’s growing role in international law enforcement cooperation, particularly through INTERPOL.
Analysts note that the case underscores the importance of cross-border intelligence sharing in tackling financial crimes that exploit global networks.
Ponzi schemes, which rely on fraudulent investment promises, have increasingly become transnational.
Perpetrators are often moving across jurisdictions to evade justice.
Xu’s arrest and repatriation demonstrate Nigeria’s resolve to align with global efforts against financial fraud.
With the successful repatriation of Xu Qing, Nigeria has sent a strong message that it will not tolerate fugitives exploiting its territory to escape justice.
The operation reinforces the country’s partnership with international policing bodies.
It also signifies its determination to safeguard its financial and business environment from criminal infiltration.
This case also serves as a reminder to Nigerian businesses: vigilance and due diligence are critical in preventing complicity in transnational fraud schemes.
