Nigeria Repatriates $245 Million Ponzi Suspect to China

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested and repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Xu Qing, to the People’s Republic of China to face charges related to large-scale illegal absorption of public deposits through a Ponzi scheme, the force announced on Wednesday.

The repatriation followed a formal request from Chinese authorities, who declared the suspect wanted in Beijing for alleged involvement in a financial fraud scheme estimated at over $245 million.

“Investigations revealed that the suspect fled China to Nigeria on 5th November 2024 in an attempt to evade arrest, following which a warrant was issued against him on 12th November 2025 by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of Qingdao Public Security,” the police said in a statement signed by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, Force Public Relations Officer.

“Acting on intelligence and sustained surveillance operations, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja successfully tracked and arrested the fugitive at a factory located in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State on 24th April 2026, after which the suspect was repatriated to the People’s Republic of China on 28th April 2026 through bilateral police cooperation arrangements to face prosecution for the offences.”

Nigeria Repatriates $245 Million Ponzi Suspect to China. Credit: NPF.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation in the fight against transnational organised crime.

The IGP also advised Nigerian employers and business entities to conduct due diligence, including background checks through the police, before engaging foreign nationals in business or employment relationships.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to combating transnational crime and ensuring that Nigeria does not serve as a safe haven for fugitives,” the statement read.

NPF ARRESTS, REPATRIATES $245 MILLION PONZI SCHEME SUSPECT TO CHINA

The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has successfully arrested and repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Xu Qing, to the People’s Republic of China to face charges… pic.twitter.com/AT7fDrNj4k

— Nigeria Police Force (@PoliceNG) May 6, 2026

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Jimisayo Opanuga

Jimisayo Opanuga is a web writer in the Digital Department at News Central TV, where she covers African and international stories. Her reporting focuses on social issues, health, justice, and the environment, alongside general-interest news. She is passionate about telling stories that inform the public and give voice to underreported communities.