It was reported on Tuesday 20 September 2016 that China had secured the extradition of a corruption suspect from France. China and France recently signed an extradition treaty and it is believed that this is the first extradition between the two countries.
It is understood that Chen Wenhua is accused of embezzling more than 20 million yuan ($3 million) in public funds between 2009 and 2012. Chen was arrested in France after an INTERPOL Red Notice was issued in 2014.
Lu Kang, a spokesman from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told the press:
"It's a major breakthrough in this area and is another successful example of repatriating criminals from European countries, after Italy and Spain," he said.
"In the future we will intensify our efforts, improve our legal system, and improve this Skynet so that it can reach to every corner of the world," he added.
"Operation Skynet" is a multiagency effort to bring back corruption suspects from abroad.
Securing the extradition of a high profile target from France will be seen as a major success for the Chinese authorities. Hampered by a lack of formal extradition arrangements with many western nations, China has previously resorted to several creative tactics including liaising with immigration authorities to secure the return of fugitives.
Gherson has extensive experience in handling complex extradition cases in many different jurisdictions across the world and in liaising with INTERPOL. We regularly assist individuals facing complex immigration problems and anyone who is concerned about a potential extradition request from China should contact our team.
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