In a major development, the Nigerian Police Force has arrested and repatriated a Chinese national, Chen Gaochong, who was wanted for tax fraud involving approximately 5 million Chinese Yuan.
The operation, which led to Gaochong’s arrest, took place on June 24, 2025, in Lagos, and was carried out through a covert operation orchestrated by INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja, with the collaboration of Chinese law enforcement authorities. The fugitive was handed over to Chinese officials on July 3, 2025.
The Crime: How Gaochong Evaded Capture
Gaochong, who was wanted by the Peixian Public Security Bureau in Jiangsu Province, China, was implicated in fraudulent activities involving the unauthorized issuance of 45 special Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices between May and August 2017. These invoices amounted to RMB 4,974,400 (around ₦5 million).
According to Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, Gaochong was involved in fake transactions made under the guise of legitimate business dealings. He used the identities of two Chinese companies:
- Linhai Guangyong Plastic Products Co., Ltd.
- Linhai Beilaisi Plastic Products Co., Ltd.
Escape and Evading Arrest
Following the discovery of his criminal activities, Gaochong fled Mainland China on November 16, 2019, through the Shenzhen Bay port, eventually escaping to Hong Kong. He later made his way to Burkina Faso before illegally entering Nigeria in 2021.
To evade capture, Gaochong deliberately avoided renewing his passport and concealed his identity. Chinese authorities issued an arrest warrant for him on July 9, 2020, following his suspected involvement in tax-related offences. A formal request for international assistance was made by China via INTERPOL.
INTERPOL’s Role and Arrest in Lagos
The Nigeria Police, upon receiving a formal request for assistance from Chinese authorities, launched an intelligence operation to track down and apprehend the fugitive. On June 24, 2025, Gaochong was successfully arrested in Lagos.
The operation was hailed as a significant milestone in international law enforcement cooperation, showcasing the successful collaboration between Nigeria’s Police Force and global law enforcement agencies.
Adejobi emphasized the importance of Nigeria’s role in the fight against transnational crime, stating:
“The Force remains committed to upholding global standards in transnational crime prevention and will continue to strengthen its collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to combat crime and criminality.”
Repatriation and International Law Enforcement Cooperation
Following his arrest, Chen Gaochong was repatriated and handed over to Chinese authorities on July 3, 2025, marking a successful collaboration between the two countries. This operation highlights Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring that international fugitives do not find refuge in the country.
Conclusion: A Win for International Law Enforcement
The successful arrest and repatriation of Chen Gaochong serve as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to fighting global crime. The police’s collaboration with INTERPOL and Chinese authorities demonstrates the importance of international partnerships in combatting fraud and other crimes that transcend national borders.
FAQ:
Who is Chen Gaochong?
Chen Gaochong is a Chinese national who was arrested in Nigeria for his involvement in tax fraud amounting to approximately ₦5 million (Chinese Yuan).
How was Gaochong caught?
The arrest was made possible through a covert operation involving INTERPOL and Chinese law enforcement authorities, leading to his arrest in Lagos on June 24, 2025.
What was Gaochong’s crime?
He was found guilty of issuing fraudulent VAT invoices, which involved fake transactions under the guise of legitimate business dealings. This amounted to a total of ₦5 million in fraud.
What will happen to Chen Gaochong now?
Gaochong has been repatriated to China and handed over to Chinese authorities for prosecution based on his tax fraud offences.
How does this affect Nigeria’s international standing?
This successful operation showcases Nigeria’s commitment to global law enforcement collaboration and assures the international community that the country is dedicated to fighting transnational crime.
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