Chinese Police Perform ‘Unofficial’ Operation In Melbourne

Chinese officers arrived in Melbourne in search of a Chinese-born tour bus driver who would face bribery charges in China. This is believed to be first confirmed incident when Chinese police travelled to a Western country as a part of “Operation Fox Hunt.”

In an exclusive report, The Sydney Morning Herald reports that a Rizhao police officer, directly related to the investigation said his colleagues might have travelled unofficially. There may be a possibility that Australian diplomats or police might not have been notified of the Chinese operation on Australian soil.

Two officers from the city of Rizhao came to Melbourne late in 2014 to negotiate directly with 49-year-old Dong Feng. Dong works as a bus driver for Chinese tour groups. He lives in Glen Waverley with his wife, Yang Xiaomei. They have a school-aged daughter. All three members of the family are believed to be naturalised Australian citizens.

"We first contacted Dong from China, but he didn't quite believe what we were saying over the phone, he said it would be best if we spoke face to face," the officer said, "This is why we went, in December 2014." Chinese President Xi Jinping launched "Operation Fox Hunt" campaign to banish corrupt officials while seizing their hidden assets overseas.

Jinping has emphasised heavily on bringing fugitives back to China and seize their hidden assets. Dong is allegedly accused of “bribery,” according to an Interpol notice. The amount of assets in question has not been mentioned but it is believed that the amount is relatively small according to contemporary Chinese standards.

Jinping’s efforts have so far led to the deportation of 290 alleged fugitives from 69 countries until December. Countries like Australia, on the other hand, gave cautious responses about China’s efforts. Australia is listed among the top three destination countries for Chinese fugitives.

It was earlier reported that more than 150 Chinese suspects who had fled overseas surrendered to authorities ahead of a Dec. 1 deadline. Chinese authorities said that the alleged fugitives would be given reduced punishments if they followed the deadline.

Jinping launched the operation in July 2014. At least 335 people were arrested under “Operation Fox Hunt.” The number included at least 154 people who surrendered themselves.

Contact the writer: s.mukhopadhyay@ibtimes.com.au