Chinese fugitive wanted for 2023 fraud arrested in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean police have confirmed the arrest of Xu Liyin, a Chinese national wanted for large-scale fraud committed in 2023.

Xu was the subject of an Interpol Red Notice, an international alert requesting his provisional arrest pending extradition. The operation involved close coordination between the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Chinese law enforcement, and Interpol.

Authorities said the arrest underscores Zimbabwe's commitment to combating transnational crime and ensuring the country does not serve as a safe haven for international fugitives.

Officials clarified that Xu Liyin should not be confused with other Chinese nationals involved in high-profile financial crimes during the same period, including Xu Faqi, a Myanmar-based gang leader sentenced to death (with reprieve) over a US$158 million telecom scam, and Xu Xiang, a hedge fund manager jailed in 2017 for market manipulation and insider trading.

Extradition proceedings for Xu Liyin are expected to follow as authorities work with international partners to bring him to justice.