Human Rights Watch has reported the arrest of two New York residents, Lu Jianwang (61) and Chen Jinping (59), last month on federal accusations of setting up and operating a "secret police station" on behalf of the Chinese government's Ministry of Public Security. These arrests have drawn further attention to the international presence of such stations operated by the Chinese Communist Party across five continents, including Europe, North America, and Africa.
Yaqui Wang, a Human Rights Watch researcher, explained that these police stations need to be understood in the context that the Chinese government has been pursuing dissidents living abroad for several years. "The global reach of these secret police stations is alarming as it demonstrates China's efforts to extend its influence and control beyond its borders," Wang said.
Italy's interior ministry appears unconcerned by this development; they told national newspaper Il Folgio last September that these Chinese stations were "of no particular concern." Italy is among few European countries yet to publicly announce an investigation into these overseas police stations or declare their illegality.
Safeguard Defenders documented the establishment of such clandestine operations in June 2022. Their research highlights forced disappearances from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) conducted by authorities who then use increasingly covert methods to return individuals to China for prosecution.
A United Nations report published last August accused China’s government of committing abuses that may amount to crimes against humanity in their alleged targeting Uyghurs and other Turkic communities within Xinjiang region. The growing number cases involving secret police station arrests may serve as further evidence supporting claims made against Beijing.
As investigations continue into this matter around world governments are urged remain vigilant protect citizens residing within their jurisdiction from illegal activities linked with foreign powers’ security apparatuses