Interpol chief Meng under probe by China's corruption body

Former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei is under investigation for suspected bribery in Beijing, China's Ministry of Public Security announced&nbsp;in a statement on its website on Monday.

Meng Hongwei, who resigned on Sunday, "accepted bribes and is suspected of violating the law", the ministry said in a statement, adding that any others who took bribes would be investigated.

Beijing on Monday has said that the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned.

According to reports, the revelations came as Meng Hongwei's wife voiced concern for his life after receiving a final text message from his phone with a knife emoji.

Beijing had remained tight-lipped about the fate of Meng, who is also China's vice minister for public security, since his disappearance was disclosed by French officials on Friday.

The National Supervisory Commission, which handles corruption cases involving public servants, broke the official silence early Monday, saying in a one-line statement that Meng "is currently under investigation on suspicion of violating the law".

Soon after, Interpol said it had received Meng's resignation "with immediate effect".

It is the latest high-profile disappearance in China, where a number of top government officials, billionaire business magnates and even an A-list celebrity have vanished for weeks or months at a time.

When -- or if -- they reappear, it is often in court.

Meng, the first Chinese president of Interpol, was last heard from on September 25 as he left Lyon -- where the world police body is based -- for China.

The agency's secretary general Juergen Stock, who oversees day-to-day operations, had said Saturday that it was seeking "clarification" on his whereabouts from Chinese authorities.

French police had opened an investigation into Meng's disappearance last week, according to a source close to the inquiry.

Meng, 64, had lived with his wife and two children in France since being elected Interpol president in 2016 for four years.

The agency said it will elect a new president next month at its general assembly in Dubai for the remaining two years of Meng's term.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei is under investigation for suspected bribery in Beijing, China's Ministry of Public Security announced in a statement on its website on Monday.

Former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei is under investigation for suspected bribery in Beijing, China's Ministry of Public Security announced in a statement on its website on Monday. Meng Hongwei, who resigned on Sunday, "accepted bribes and is suspected of violating the law", the ministry said in a statement, adding that any others who took bribes would be investigated. Beijing on Monday has said that the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned. According to reports, the revelations came as Meng Hongwei's wife voiced concern for his life after receiving a final text message from his phone with a knife emoji. Beijing had remained tight-lipped about the fate of Meng, who is also China's vice minister for public security, since his disappearance was disclosed by French officials on Friday. The National Supervisory Commission, which handles corruption cases involving public servants, broke the official silence early Monday, saying in a one-line statement that Meng "is currently under investigation on suspicion of violating the law". Soon after, Interpol said it had received Meng's resignation "with immediate effect". It is the latest high-profile disappearance in China, where a number of top government officials, billionaire business magnates and even an A-list celebrity have vanished for weeks or months at a time. When -- or if -- they reappear, it is often in court. Meng, the first Chinese president of Interpol, was last heard from on September 25 as he left Lyon -- where the world police body is based -- for China. The agency's secretary general Juergen Stock, who oversees day-to-day operations, had said Saturday that it was seeking "clarification" on his whereabouts from Chinese authorities. French police had opened an investigation into Meng's disappearance last week, according to a source close to the inquiry. Meng, 64, had lived with his wife and two children in France since being elected Interpol president in 2016 for four years. The agency said it will elect a new president next month at its general assembly in Dubai for the remaining two years of Meng's term. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Interpol chief under probe for bribery: Chinese ministry

Ex-Interpol chief Meng Hongwei,64, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-interpol-chief-under-probe-for-bribery-china-ministry-says-170152">who has been arrested by China</a> on alleged bribery charges has once brought back China's President Xi's anti-graft drive into focus.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-missing-interpol-chief-accepted-bribes-170167">Also Read:&nbsp;China says missing Interpol chief accepted bribes</a>

Meng who had taken over as the Interpol president two years ago was the first Chinese national to bag the top post in the international police force. However, at that time human rights group had expressed concern that Beijing might try to leverage his position to pursue dissidents abroad.

Meng was a well known crime fighter in China.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Sunday, Interpol said it had received a resignation of Mr Meng Hongwei as President of Interpol with immediate effect. China Ministry of Public Security said on Monday that Meng was being suspected of taking bribes and violating laws and was being investigated. "He has submitted a written letter to resign his post as the Interpol president," Lu Kang, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

"The investigation against Meng Hongwei taking bribes and suspected violations of law is very timely, absolutely correct and rather wise," China's Ministry of Public Security said.

Meng's sudden disappearance was flagged off by his wife in Lyon while informing reporters about her husband's plight. She showed journalists a text message on her mobile phone with an image of a knife, sent by her husband as a way of showing her that he felt he was in danger, French media reported.&nbsp;

China under President Xi has cracked down heavily on corruption. China's Hollywood star Fan Bingbing was recently put under detention allegedly for evading taxes. Tax authorities ordered Fan to pay $129 million in back taxes, fines and penalties, adding that she would avoid incarceration if she pays up in time.

Meng rose through&nbsp;the ranks in China under Zhou Yongkang who is known to be a rival of President Xi. Zhou was arrested in 2014 for allegedly trying to seize state power.

In 2004, Zhou had appointed Meng as vice security minister. He&nbsp;worked ceaselessly in China's anti-terrorism division including in China's restive Xinjiang province. In April, China withdrew his membership of the Communist Party. He had joined the Communist Party while still in his 20s.

A graduate of Peking University, Meng was born in Harbin which is the largest Chinese city in the northeastern region.&nbsp;

During Meng's tenure as vice security minister, China's public security bureau had arrested a number of prominent Chinese dissidents, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo, who died of liver cancer under police custody last year. In 2013, Meng was appointed the director of China's maritime police bureau concerned with anti-smuggling operations.

Interpol which consists of group of 192 countries acts as police force concerned with catching criminals and finding missing people worldwide. French police which was investigating Meng's case termed it a "worrying disappearance".

At Interpol, Meng presided over the organisation's General Assembly and Executive Committee meetings and was expected to serve till 2020.

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z5NoM2n1Y3k" width="560"></iframe>

Ex-Interpol chief Meng Hongwei,64, who has been arrested by China on alleged bribery charges has once brought back China's President Xi's anti-graft drive into focus.

Ex-Interpol chief Meng Hongwei,64, who has been arrested by China on alleged bribery charges has once brought back China's President Xi's anti-graft drive into focus. Also Read: China says missing Interpol chief accepted bribes Meng who had taken over as the Interpol president two years ago was the first Chinese national to bag the top post in the international police force. However, at that time human rights group had expressed concern that Beijing might try to leverage his position to pursue dissidents abroad. Meng was a well known crime fighter in China. On Sunday, Interpol said it had received a resignation of Mr Meng Hongwei as President of Interpol with immediate effect. China Ministry of Public Security said on Monday that Meng was being suspected of taking bribes and violating laws and was being investigated. "He has submitted a written letter to resign his post as the Interpol president," Lu Kang, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. "The investigation against Meng Hongwei taking bribes and suspected violations of law is very timely, absolutely correct and rather wise," China's Ministry of Public Security said. Meng's sudden disappearance was flagged off by his wife in Lyon while informing reporters about her husband's plight. She showed journalists a text message on her mobile phone with an image of a knife, sent by her husband as a way of showing her that he felt he was in danger, French media reported. China under President Xi has cracked down heavily on corruption. China's Hollywood star Fan Bingbing was recently put under detention allegedly for evading taxes. Tax authorities ordered Fan to pay $129 million in back taxes, fines and penalties, adding that she would avoid incarceration if she pays up in time. Meng rose through the ranks in China under Zhou Yongkang who is known to be a rival of President Xi. Zhou was arrested in 2014 for allegedly trying to seize state power. In 2004, Zhou had appointed Meng as vice security minister. He worked ceaselessly in China's anti-terrorism division including in China's restive Xinjiang province. In April, China withdrew his membership of the Communist Party. He had joined the Communist Party while still in his 20s. A graduate of Peking University, Meng was born in Harbin which is the largest Chinese city in the northeastern region. During Meng's tenure as vice security minister, China's public security bureau had arrested a number of prominent Chinese dissidents, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo, who died of liver cancer under police custody last year. In 2013, Meng was appointed the director of China's maritime police bureau concerned with anti-smuggling operations. Interpol which consists of group of 192 countries acts as police force concerned with catching criminals and finding missing people worldwide. French police which was investigating Meng's case termed it a "worrying disappearance". At Interpol, Meng presided over the organisation's General Assembly and Executive Committee meetings and was expected to serve till 2020.

Ex-Interpol chief Meng rose under Zhou, rival of President Xi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/interpols-missing-chinese-chief-resigns-amid-beijing-probe-170065">Interpol says its missing chief had resigned, China announces it is investigating him</a>

Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-local-body-polls-today-after-13-years-security-beefed-up-170057">Jammu and Kashmir: Local body polls today after 13 years, security beefed up</a>

Security forces have intensified checking and area domination as part of an elaborate plan to provide a sense of security for the smooth conduct of local body polls in the Kashmir Valley, officials said Sunday. The first phase of the polls start Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/far-right-bolsonaro-wins-1st-round-brazil-election-but-run-off-uncertain-170053">Far-right Bolsonaro wins 1st round Brazil election, run-off uncertain</a>

Polarizing far-right politician Jair Bolsonaro looked to be the big winner of a first-round presidential election in Brazil on Sunday, according to mostly complete results -- but a final victory in a run-off to be held in three weeks is far from assured.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-knew-about-vikas-bahls-sexual-abuse-allegations-says-named-shamed-him-privately-170074">Anurag Kashyap on allegations against Vikas Bahl: Named &amp; shamed him privately</a>

Anurag reveales that he knew about the sexual abuse allegations levied against Phantom Films co-owner Vikas Bahl. For those who are not aware, Vikas is the man behind Kangana Ranaut’s super successful film, ‘Queen’. Kangana confirmed that Vikas behaved inappropriately with her too while shooting for the film.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-asia-cup-badoni-and-tyagi-shine-as-india-beat-sri-lanka-by-144-runs-to-win-title-170055">U-19 Asia Cup: Badoni and Tyagi shine as India beat Sri Lanka by 144 runs to win </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-asia-cup-badoni-and-tyagi-shine-as-india-beat-sri-lanka-by-144-runs-to-win-title-170055">title</a>

India's U-19 team Sunday followed the footsteps of their seniors to win the U-19 Asia Cup title with a crushing 144-run win against Sri Lanka in the final with Delhi boys Ayush Badoni and Harsh Tyagi playing prominent roles.

&nbsp;

Interpol says its missing chief had resigned, China announces it is investigating him Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned.

Interpol says its missing chief had resigned, China announces it is investigating him Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned. Jammu and Kashmir: Local body polls today after 13 years, security beefed up Security forces have intensified checking and area domination as part of an elaborate plan to provide a sense of security for the smooth conduct of local body polls in the Kashmir Valley, officials said Sunday. The first phase of the polls start Monday. Far-right Bolsonaro wins 1st round Brazil election, run-off uncertain Polarizing far-right politician Jair Bolsonaro looked to be the big winner of a first-round presidential election in Brazil on Sunday, according to mostly complete results -- but a final victory in a run-off to be held in three weeks is far from assured. Anurag Kashyap on allegations against Vikas Bahl: Named & shamed him privately Anurag reveales that he knew about the sexual abuse allegations levied against Phantom Films co-owner Vikas Bahl. For those who are not aware, Vikas is the man behind Kangana Ranaut’s super successful film, ‘Queen’. Kangana confirmed that Vikas behaved inappropriately with her too while shooting for the film. U-19 Asia Cup: Badoni and Tyagi shine as India beat Sri Lanka by 144 runs to win title India's U-19 team Sunday followed the footsteps of their seniors to win the U-19 Asia Cup title with a crushing 144-run win against Sri Lanka in the final with Delhi boys Ayush Badoni and Harsh Tyagi playing prominent roles.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned.

The revelations came as Meng Hongwei's wife voiced concern for his life after receiving a final text message from his phone with a knife emoji.

Beijing had remained tight-lipped about the fate of Meng, who is also China's vice minister for public security, since his disappearance was disclosed by French officials on Friday.

The National Supervisory Commission, which handles corruption cases involving public servants, broke the official silence early Monday, saying in a one-line statement that Meng "is currently under investigation on suspicion of violating the law".

Soon after, Interpol said it had received Meng's resignation "with immediate effect".

It is the latest high-profile disappearance in China, where a number of top government officials, billionaire business magnates and even an A-list celebrity have vanished for weeks or months at a time.

When -- or if -- they reappear, it is often in court.

Meng, the first Chinese president of Interpol, was last heard from on September 25 as he left Lyon -- where the world police body is based -- for China.

The agency's secretary general Juergen Stock, who oversees day-to-day operations, had said Saturday that it was seeking "clarification" on his whereabouts from Chinese authorities.

French police had opened an investigation into Meng's disappearance last week, according to a source close to the inquiry.

Meng, 64, had lived with his wife and two children in France since being elected Interpol president in 2016 for four years.

The agency said it will elect a new president next month at its general assembly in Dubai for the remaining two years of Meng's term

Danger emoji

Speaking to reporters in France on Sunday, Meng's wife Grace said she had received a message from his phone containing a knife emoji before his disappearance.

That day, she said he sent a message telling her to "wait for my call", before sending the emoji signifying danger.

"This matter belongs to the international community," she told a press conference.

"I'm not sure what has happened to him," she said.

Later, upon learning about the announcement from China's anti-graft commission, she told AFP that her husband's case will be under the watch of "international law and international public opinion", describing the situation as "political ruin".

China's recently established National Supervisory Commission holds sweeping powers to investigate the country's public servants with few requirements for transparency.

Although the commission did not detail the allegations against Meng, its mandate is to investigate corruption cases as part of Chinese President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign.

Some critics of the effort -- which has punished more than one million officials -- say it also functions as a tool for Xi to eliminate his political rivals.

Red notices

Meng rose up the ranks of the country's domestic security apparatus when it was under the leadership of Zhou Yongkang, a rival to Xi and the highest-ranking official to be brought down on corruption charges.

Zhou -- who was sentenced to life in prison in 2014 -- was subsequently accused of conspiring to seize state power and authorities have continued working to root out his influence.

He appointed Meng vice security minister in 2004.

In that role, Meng has been entrusted with a number of sensitive portfolios, including the country's counter-terrorism division, and he was in charge of the response to several major incidents in China's fractious western region of Xinjiang.

Critics of Meng's 2016 election to Interpol's presidency said he would use the position to help China target dissidents abroad under the guise of pursuing corrupt officials.

Interpol has downplayed the concerns, saying the president has little influence over the organisation's day-to-day operations, which are handled by secretary general Stock, a German.

The Chinese effort to track down corrupt officials abroad, known as Operation Fox Hunt, has led to claims in some countries that Chinese law-enforcement agents have been operating covertly on their soil without the approval or consent of local authorities.

China currently has 44 outstanding red notices, mostly related to murder, intentional injury and drug smuggling, according to Interpol's website.

During Meng's tenure, Interpol issued a red notice for fugitive Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui, who threatened to reveal corruption at the country's highest levels.

Authorities in China and Hong Kong have accused Guo, a real estate tycoon who resides in the United States, of laundering billions of dollars among other crimes.

Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned.

Beijing announced Monday the Chinese head of Interpol, who vanished after returning to his homeland, was under investigation for possible criminal activity, and the world police organisation said he had resigned. The revelations came as Meng Hongwei's wife voiced concern for his life after receiving a final text message from his phone with a knife emoji. Beijing had remained tight-lipped about the fate of Meng, who is also China's vice minister for public security, since his disappearance was disclosed by French officials on Friday. The National Supervisory Commission, which handles corruption cases involving public servants, broke the official silence early Monday, saying in a one-line statement that Meng "is currently under investigation on suspicion of violating the law". Soon after, Interpol said it had received Meng's resignation "with immediate effect". It is the latest high-profile disappearance in China, where a number of top government officials, billionaire business magnates and even an A-list celebrity have vanished for weeks or months at a time. When -- or if -- they reappear, it is often in court. Meng, the first Chinese president of Interpol, was last heard from on September 25 as he left Lyon -- where the world police body is based -- for China. The agency's secretary general Juergen Stock, who oversees day-to-day operations, had said Saturday that it was seeking "clarification" on his whereabouts from Chinese authorities. French police had opened an investigation into Meng's disappearance last week, according to a source close to the inquiry. Meng, 64, had lived with his wife and two children in France since being elected Interpol president in 2016 for four years. The agency said it will elect a new president next month at its general assembly in Dubai for the remaining two years of Meng's term Danger emoji Speaking to reporters in France on Sunday, Meng's wife Grace said she had received a message from his phone containing a knife emoji before his disappearance. That day, she said he sent a message telling her to "wait for my call", before sending the emoji signifying danger. "This matter belongs to the international community," she told a press conference. "I'm not sure what has happened to him," she said. Later, upon learning about the announcement from China's anti-graft commission, she told AFP that her husband's case will be under the watch of "international law and international public opinion", describing the situation as "political ruin". China's recently established National Supervisory Commission holds sweeping powers to investigate the country's public servants with few requirements for transparency. Although the commission did not detail the allegations against Meng, its mandate is to investigate corruption cases as part of Chinese President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign. Some critics of the effort -- which has punished more than one million officials -- say it also functions as a tool for Xi to eliminate his political rivals. Red notices Meng rose up the ranks of the country's domestic security apparatus when it was under the leadership of Zhou Yongkang, a rival to Xi and the highest-ranking official to be brought down on corruption charges. Zhou -- who was sentenced to life in prison in 2014 -- was subsequently accused of conspiring to seize state power and authorities have continued working to root out his influence. He appointed Meng vice security minister in 2004. In that role, Meng has been entrusted with a number of sensitive portfolios, including the country's counter-terrorism division, and he was in charge of the response to several major incidents in China's fractious western region of Xinjiang. Critics of Meng's 2016 election to Interpol's presidency said he would use the position to help China target dissidents abroad under the guise of pursuing corrupt officials. Interpol has downplayed the concerns, saying the president has little influence over the organisation's day-to-day operations, which are handled by secretary general Stock, a German. The Chinese effort to track down corrupt officials abroad, known as Operation Fox Hunt, has led to claims in some countries that Chinese law-enforcement agents have been operating covertly on their soil without the approval or consent of local authorities. China currently has 44 outstanding red notices, mostly related to murder, intentional injury and drug smuggling, according to Interpol's website. During Meng's tenure, Interpol issued a red notice for fugitive Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui, who threatened to reveal corruption at the country's highest levels. Authorities in China and Hong Kong have accused Guo, a real estate tycoon who resides in the United States, of laundering billions of dollars among other crimes.

Interpol says its missing chief had resigned, China announces it is investigating him

Interpol demanded an official "clarification" from China on the whereabouts of its missing police chief Saturday, after reports said he was detained for questioning on arrival in his homeland.

Beijing has remained silent over the mysterious disappearance of Meng Hongwei, who was last seen leaving for China in late September from the Interpol headquarters in Lyon, southeast France, a source close to the enquiry told AFP.

His wife has since reported him missing.

"Interpol has requested through official law enforcement channels clarification from China's authorities on the status of Interpol President Meng Hongwei," Jurgen Stock, the secretary-general of the international police body said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Interpol's General Secretariat looks forward to an official response from China's authorities to address concerns over the President's well-being."

It is the latest high-profile disappearance in China, where a number of top government officials, billionaire business magnates and even an A-list celebrity have vanished for weeks or months at a time.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not respond to a request for comment from AFP.

But news of his absence was swiftly followed by speculation that the 64-year-old Meng -- who also serves as a vice-minister of China's Ministry of Public Security -- had been swept up in Beijing's secretive anti-corruption campaign.

Citing an anonymous source, the South China Morning Post said authorities from the country's disciplinary commission had snatched Meng upon arrival in Beijing.

China's recently established National Supervisory Commission holds sweeping powers to investigate the country's public servants with few requirements for transparency.

While the law requires authorities to inform family members of a detention, it makes exceptions for cases involving national security, terrorism, or concerns over destruction of evidence or witness tampering.

People have been known to disappear into the commission's custody for weeks or even months without a word.

Anti-corruption?&nbsp;

It is not clear why Meng -- the first Chinese president of Interpol -- would be under investigation.

Chinese president Xi Jinping has presided over a popular anti-graft drive since coming to power in 2012 that has punished more than one million officials, with critics comparing it to a political purge.

Meng rose up the ranks of the country's domestic security apparatus when it was under the leadership of Zhou Yongkang, a rival to Xi and the highest-ranking official to be brought down on corruption charges.

Zhou -- who was sentenced to life in prison in 2014 -- was subsequently accused of conspiring to seize state power and authorities have continued working to root out his influence.

He appointed Meng vice security minister in 2004.

In the role Meng has been entrusted with a number of sensitive portfolios, including heading up the country's counter-terrorism division, which saw him in charge of the response to several major incidents in China's fractious western region of Xinjiang.

Critics of Meng's 2016 election to Interpol's presidency said he would use the position to help China target dissidents abroad under the guise of pursuing corrupt officials.

Interpol has downplayed the concerns, saying the president has little influence over the organisation's day-to-day operations, which are handled by secretary-general Stock, a German.

The Chinese effort to track down corrupt officials abroad, known as Operation Fox Hunt, has led to claims in some countries that Chinese law-enforcement agents have been operating covertly on their soil without the approval or consent of local authorities.

China currently has 44 outstanding red notices, mostly related to murder, intentional injury and drug smuggling, according to Interpol's web site.

During Meng's tenure, Interpol issued a red notice for fugitive Chinese billionaire real estate tycoon Guo Wengui, who threatened to reveal corruption at the country's highest levels.

Authorities in China and Hong Kong have accused Guo, who resides in the United States, of laundering billions of dollars among other crimes.

Interpol demanded an official "clarification" from China on the whereabouts of its missing police chief Saturday, after reports said he was detained for questioning on arrival in his homeland.

Interpol demanded an official "clarification" from China on the whereabouts of its missing police chief Saturday, after reports said he was detained for questioning on arrival in his homeland. Beijing has remained silent over the mysterious disappearance of Meng Hongwei, who was last seen leaving for China in late September from the Interpol headquarters in Lyon, southeast France, a source close to the enquiry told AFP. His wife has since reported him missing. "Interpol has requested through official law enforcement channels clarification from China's authorities on the status of Interpol President Meng Hongwei," Jurgen Stock, the secretary-general of the international police body said in a statement. "Interpol's General Secretariat looks forward to an official response from China's authorities to address concerns over the President's well-being." It is the latest high-profile disappearance in China, where a number of top government officials, billionaire business magnates and even an A-list celebrity have vanished for weeks or months at a time. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not respond to a request for comment from AFP. But news of his absence was swiftly followed by speculation that the 64-year-old Meng -- who also serves as a vice-minister of China's Ministry of Public Security -- had been swept up in Beijing's secretive anti-corruption campaign. Citing an anonymous source, the South China Morning Post said authorities from the country's disciplinary commission had snatched Meng upon arrival in Beijing. China's recently established National Supervisory Commission holds sweeping powers to investigate the country's public servants with few requirements for transparency. While the law requires authorities to inform family members of a detention, it makes exceptions for cases involving national security, terrorism, or concerns over destruction of evidence or witness tampering. People have been known to disappear into the commission's custody for weeks or even months without a word. Anti-corruption? It is not clear why Meng -- the first Chinese president of Interpol -- would be under investigation. Chinese president Xi Jinping has presided over a popular anti-graft drive since coming to power in 2012 that has punished more than one million officials, with critics comparing it to a political purge. Meng rose up the ranks of the country's domestic security apparatus when it was under the leadership of Zhou Yongkang, a rival to Xi and the highest-ranking official to be brought down on corruption charges. Zhou -- who was sentenced to life in prison in 2014 -- was subsequently accused of conspiring to seize state power and authorities have continued working to root out his influence. He appointed Meng vice security minister in 2004. In the role Meng has been entrusted with a number of sensitive portfolios, including heading up the country's counter-terrorism division, which saw him in charge of the response to several major incidents in China's fractious western region of Xinjiang. Critics of Meng's 2016 election to Interpol's presidency said he would use the position to help China target dissidents abroad under the guise of pursuing corrupt officials. Interpol has downplayed the concerns, saying the president has little influence over the organisation's day-to-day operations, which are handled by secretary-general Stock, a German. The Chinese effort to track down corrupt officials abroad, known as Operation Fox Hunt, has led to claims in some countries that Chinese law-enforcement agents have been operating covertly on their soil without the approval or consent of local authorities. China currently has 44 outstanding red notices, mostly related to murder, intentional injury and drug smuggling, according to Interpol's web site. During Meng's tenure, Interpol issued a red notice for fugitive Chinese billionaire real estate tycoon Guo Wengui, who threatened to reveal corruption at the country's highest levels. Authorities in China and Hong Kong have accused Guo, who resides in the United States, of laundering billions of dollars among other crimes.

Interpol demands China 'clarification' on missing chief

According to reports, the Central Bureau of Investigation has requested Interpol to issue red corner notices against Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi. At present, the CBI does not have any confirmation on the whereabouts of Nirav Modi, ANI reported.

As per reports, the CBI will take further action as soon as Nirav Modi's whereabouts are confirmed.

Nirav Modi, the billionaire jeweller at the heart of a more than $2 billion fraud case, has fled to the UK, where he is claiming political asylum.

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CBI has requested Interpol to issue red corner notices against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NiravModi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NiravModi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MehulChoksi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MehulChoksi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/u8MF23kxFi">pic.twitter.com/u8MF23kxFi</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1006142971870236672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to Reuters, Britain's Home Office said it does not provide information on individual cases.

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CBI does not have confirmation on the whereabouts of Nirav Modi yet. The moment his whereabouts are confirmed further action will be taken. Red corner notice (RCN) in process against Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi: CBI Sources <a href="https://t.co/wBjXTrDDEO">pic.twitter.com/wBjXTrDDEO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1006135988727439362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Punjab National Bank, the country'a second-largest state-run bank, said earlier in 2018 that two jewellery groups headed by Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi had defrauded it of about $2.2 billion by raising credit from overseas branches of other Indian banks using illegal guarantees issued by rogue PNB staff at a Mumbai branch over several years.

Nirav Modi, the billionaire jeweller at the heart of a more than $2 billion fraud case, has fled to the UK, where he is claiming political asylum

According to reports, the Central Bureau of Investigation has requested Interpol to issue red corner notices against Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi. At present, the CBI does not have any confirmation on the whereabouts of Nirav Modi, ANI reported. As per reports, the CBI will take further action as soon as Nirav Modi's whereabouts are confirmed. Nirav Modi, the billionaire jeweller at the heart of a more than $2 billion fraud case, has fled to the UK, where he is claiming political asylum. CBI has requested Interpol to issue red corner notices against #NiravModi and #MehulChoksi. pic.twitter.com/u8MF23kxFi — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2018 × According to Reuters, Britain's Home Office said it does not provide information on individual cases. CBI does not have confirmation on the whereabouts of Nirav Modi yet. The moment his whereabouts are confirmed further action will be taken. Red corner notice (RCN) in process against Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi: CBI Sources pic.twitter.com/wBjXTrDDEO — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2018 × Punjab National Bank, the country'a second-largest state-run bank, said earlier in 2018 that two jewellery groups headed by Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi had defrauded it of about $2.2 billion by raising credit from overseas branches of other Indian banks using illegal guarantees issued by rogue PNB staff at a Mumbai branch over several years.

CBI requests Interpol to issue red corner notices against Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has put a Pakistani diplomat on its "wanted list"&nbsp;and released his photo seeking information.

The investigation agency said Amir Siddique worked as a visa counsellor in the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo in Sri Lanka.

Reports said along with Siddique two other Pakistan officers have also been charged with "waging war against India" and "plotting 26/11 type attack" on the US and Israeli consulates including in Indian Naval&nbsp;posts&nbsp;in southern India in 2014.

Nicknamed as 'Boss' in the NIA list, he was chargesheeted in February by the investigating agency.

Reports say NIA is preparing to seek Interpol's help against a "fourth Pakistani" in the case.

This is the first time the NIA has taken steps against a Pakistan diplomat in an alleged terrorist-related activity.

Reports say NIA is preparing to seek Interpol's help against a "fourth Pakistani" in the case.

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has put a Pakistani diplomat on its "wanted list" and released his photo seeking information. The investigation agency said Amir Siddique worked as a visa counsellor in the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo in Sri Lanka. Reports said along with Siddique two other Pakistan officers have also been charged with "waging war against India" and "plotting 26/11 type attack" on the US and Israeli consulates including in Indian Naval posts in southern India in 2014. Nicknamed as 'Boss' in the NIA list, he was chargesheeted in February by the investigating agency. Reports say NIA is preparing to seek Interpol's help against a "fourth Pakistani" in the case. This is the first time the NIA has taken steps against a Pakistan diplomat in an alleged terrorist-related activity.

National Investigation Agency puts Pakistan diplomat on 'wanted list'

The Interpol has rejected the&nbsp;National Investigation Agency&#39;s (NIA) request for red corner notice against Zakir Naik stating that India&#39;s request is premature.&nbsp;

The agency has also told global offices to delete all data in relation to him.

Interpol claimed that the Indian authorities have failed to follow proper process of law. It also cited political and religious bias and lack of international interest as the reasons for its decision.

The NIA said its request for the red corner notice against Zakir Naik was not accepted by Interpol as the charge sheet had not been filed when the request was submitted to the Interpol headquarters.

The agency will now submit a fresh request to Interpol as charge sheet has already been filed in the concerned NIA court in Mumbai.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
NIA&#39;s request for Red Notice against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZakirNaik?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZakirNaik</a> was not accepted by Interpol as chargesheet had not been filed when request was submitted to the Interpol HQ. Will now submit fresh request to Interpol as chargesheet has already been filed in the concerned NIA court in Mumbai: NIA <a href="https://t.co/qF32r6cKSV">pic.twitter.com/qF32r6cKSV</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/942069617052151808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Naik had been charged under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and Sections 120 (b), 153 (a), 295 (a), 298 and 505 (2) of the Indian Penal Code.

The NIA had accused Naik of radicalising youth and spreading hatred between religious groups in India through his speeches and lectures.

Indian youth, who fled the country to join the Islamic State (IS) have revealed that they were influenced by speeches made by him.&nbsp;

Naik was charged with conspiring with his organisation&nbsp;Islamic Research Foundation&rsquo;s (IRF) Trust and the Harmony Media Private Limited to commit the offences.

His NGO was banned by the home ministry in December 2016.&nbsp;

According to reports, Zakir Naik is currently in Malaysia, which has given him asylum.&nbsp;

Now, India is likely to start the extradition process soon.

Zakir Naik&#39;s Peace TV is banned in several countries across the world including the UK and Canada.

During his interactions with the media in India, he has repeatedly denied all the charges against him.

The Mumbai-based preacher came under the lens of security agencies after some terrorists allegedly involved in the attack on a cafe in Dhaka in July last year reportedly claimed they were inspired by his speeches.

The agency has also told global offices to delete all data in relation to him, reports further said

The Interpol has rejected the National Investigation Agency's (NIA) request for red corner notice against Zakir Naik stating that India's request is premature. The agency has also told global offices to delete all data in relation to him. Interpol claimed that the Indian authorities have failed to follow proper process of law. It also cited political and religious bias and lack of international interest as the reasons for its decision. The NIA said its request for the red corner notice against Zakir Naik was not accepted by Interpol as the charge sheet had not been filed when the request was submitted to the Interpol headquarters. The agency will now submit a fresh request to Interpol as charge sheet has already been filed in the concerned NIA court in Mumbai. NIA's request for Red Notice against #ZakirNaik was not accepted by Interpol as chargesheet had not been filed when request was submitted to the Interpol HQ. Will now submit fresh request to Interpol as chargesheet has already been filed in the concerned NIA court in Mumbai: NIA pic.twitter.com/qF32r6cKSV — ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2017 × Naik had been charged under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and Sections 120 (b), 153 (a), 295 (a), 298 and 505 (2) of the Indian Penal Code. The NIA had accused Naik of radicalising youth and spreading hatred between religious groups in India through his speeches and lectures. Indian youth, who fled the country to join the Islamic State (IS) have revealed that they were influenced by speeches made by him. Naik was charged with conspiring with his organisation Islamic Research Foundation’s (IRF) Trust and the Harmony Media Private Limited to commit the offences. His NGO was banned by the home ministry in December 2016. According to reports, Zakir Naik is currently in Malaysia, which has given him asylum. Now, India is likely to start the extradition process soon. Zakir Naik's Peace TV is banned in several countries across the world including the UK and Canada. During his interactions with the media in India, he has repeatedly denied all the charges against him. The Mumbai-based preacher came under the lens of security agencies after some terrorists allegedly involved in the attack on a cafe in Dhaka in July last year reportedly claimed they were inspired by his speeches.

Interpol cancels red corner notice against Zakir Naik, says request premature

Germany&#39;s BND foreign intelligence agency spied on the Interpol international police agency for years and on the group&#39;s country liaison offices in dozens of countries such as Austria, Greece and the United States, a German magazine said.

No comment was immediately available from the BND, Interpol or Europol.

Der Spiegel magazine, citing documents it had seen, said the BND had added the email addresses, phone numbers and fax numbers of the police investigators to its sector surveillance list.

In addition, the German spy agency also monitored the Europol police agency Europol which is based in The Hague, the magazine said.

Der Spiegel reported in February that the BND also spied on the phones, faxes and emails of several news organisations, including the New York Times and Reuters.

The BND&#39;s activities have come under intense scrutiny during a German parliamentary investigation into allegations that the US&nbsp;National Security Agency conducted mass surveillance outside of the United States, including a cellphone used by Chancellor Angela Merkel.&nbsp;

Konstantin von Notz, a Greens party member who serves on the investigative committee, described the latest report about the BND&#39;s spying activities as &quot;scandalous and unfathomable&quot;.

&quot;We now know that parliaments, various companies and even journalists and publishers have been targeted, as well as allied countries,&quot; von Notz said in a statement.

He said the latest reports showed how ineffective parliamentary controls had been thus far, despite new legislation aimed at reforming the BND.

&quot;It represents a danger to our rule of law,&quot; he said.

(Reuters)

Citing documents it had seen, the magazine said the BND had added the email addresses, phone numbers and fax numbers of the police investigators to its sector surveillance list

Germany's BND foreign intelligence agency spied on the Interpol international police agency for years and on the group's country liaison offices in dozens of countries such as Austria, Greece and the United States, a German magazine said. No comment was immediately available from the BND, Interpol or Europol. Der Spiegel magazine, citing documents it had seen, said the BND had added the email addresses, phone numbers and fax numbers of the police investigators to its sector surveillance list. In addition, the German spy agency also monitored the Europol police agency Europol which is based in The Hague, the magazine said. Der Spiegel reported in February that the BND also spied on the phones, faxes and emails of several news organisations, including the New York Times and Reuters. The BND's activities have come under intense scrutiny during a German parliamentary investigation into allegations that the US National Security Agency conducted mass surveillance outside of the United States, including a cellphone used by Chancellor Angela Merkel. Konstantin von Notz, a Greens party member who serves on the investigative committee, described the latest report about the BND's spying activities as "scandalous and unfathomable". "We now know that parliaments, various companies and even journalists and publishers have been targeted, as well as allied countries," von Notz said in a statement. He said the latest reports showed how ineffective parliamentary controls had been thus far, despite new legislation aimed at reforming the BND. "It represents a danger to our rule of law," he said. (Reuters)

German intelligence spied on Interpol: Der Spiegel

Indonesian police said on Tuesday Interpol has issued red notices, the closest to an international arrest warrant, for three Chinese executives suspected of fraud linked to a more than $800 million Sinopec oil terminal development in Indonesia.

China Petroleum and Chemical Corp, or Sinopec, is the second major Chinese state oil firm in less than three years to find staff facing allegations of corruption in Indonesia, where the resources sector is riddled with graft and legal and contractual uncertainty.

&quot;The three red notices have been published for those wanted people,&quot; said National Police spokesman Boy Rafli Amar.

Indonesian authorities filed a request for Interpol assistance on February&nbsp;21 regarding the three executives, suspects in the alleged embezzlement of an undisclosed sum of money from the West Point Terminal project, Amar said. He identified the three as West Point Terminal finance director Zhang Jun, chief executive Feng Zhigang and chairman Ye Zhijun.

In a statement on its official microblog, Sinopec said it had not received any red notices from Interpol, was checking relevant information about the project and that the company and its subsidiaries operated in accordance with the law.

Reuters has not yet been able to find telephone numbers or email addresses for the three executives, so has been unable to contact them for comment.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said she had seen reports about the red notices, but was not aware of specifics.

Interpol&#39;s General Secretariat press office said in an emailed response to questions on the matter that it did not &quot;comment on specific cases or individuals except in special circumstances&quot;.

A red notice is Interpol&#39;s highest alert and is a request to locate and provisionally arrest an individual pending extradition. It is not an international arrest warrant, as Interpol cannot compel any member country to arrest an individual who is the subject of a red notice.

Indonesia, an archipelago of some 250 million people rich in resources, is routinely ranked by watchdog Transparency International as one of the world&#39;s most corrupt countries.

Former Indonesian energy minister Jero Wacik is serving an eight-year prison term for involvement in extortion and kickbacks worth about $840,000.

&nbsp;

SERIES OF SETBACKS

Defrizal Djamaris, a lawyer representing West Point Terminal&#39;s 5-per cent stakeholder, PT Mas Capital Trust (MCT), said MCT reported suspicions of fraud on the project to local police in 2015.

The red notices were issued because the three executives had left the country and &quot;not cooperated&quot; with local police investigations, Djamaris said. The police&#39;s Amar did not confirm this.

The West Point Terminal was touted to be Southeast Asia&#39;s largest and was initially expected to be operational by mid-2016, but has faced a series of setbacks including a lawsuit filed by Indonesian shareholders in November.

The project in Indonesia&#39;s Batam free trade zone to the south of Singapore is 95-per cent owned by Sinopec Kantons Holdings, a subsidiary of Sinopec.

Sinopec Kantons bought into the project in January 2012, aiming to develop a 2.6 million-tonne storage facility worth more than $800 million.

The project was delayed by several years due to slow demand for tank space, Reuters reported. An official at Indonesia&#39;s energy ministry said the downstream operations permit for the West Point Terminal expired in late 2014.

Sinopec&#39;s only other Indonesian asset is an 18-per cent stake in Chevron&#39;s deep water project, bought in 2010. Sinopec Kantons, which is one of Sinopec&#39;s smallest subsidiaries, was not immediately available for comment.

(Reuters)

Sinopec is the second major Chinese state oil firm in less than three years to find staff facing allegations of corruption in Indonesia

Indonesian police said on Tuesday Interpol has issued red notices, the closest to an international arrest warrant, for three Chinese executives suspected of fraud linked to a more than $800 million Sinopec oil terminal development in Indonesia. China Petroleum and Chemical Corp, or Sinopec, is the second major Chinese state oil firm in less than three years to find staff facing allegations of corruption in Indonesia, where the resources sector is riddled with graft and legal and contractual uncertainty. "The three red notices have been published for those wanted people," said National Police spokesman Boy Rafli Amar. Indonesian authorities filed a request for Interpol assistance on February 21 regarding the three executives, suspects in the alleged embezzlement of an undisclosed sum of money from the West Point Terminal project, Amar said. He identified the three as West Point Terminal finance director Zhang Jun, chief executive Feng Zhigang and chairman Ye Zhijun. In a statement on its official microblog, Sinopec said it had not received any red notices from Interpol, was checking relevant information about the project and that the company and its subsidiaries operated in accordance with the law. Reuters has not yet been able to find telephone numbers or email addresses for the three executives, so has been unable to contact them for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said she had seen reports about the red notices, but was not aware of specifics. Interpol's General Secretariat press office said in an emailed response to questions on the matter that it did not "comment on specific cases or individuals except in special circumstances". A red notice is Interpol's highest alert and is a request to locate and provisionally arrest an individual pending extradition. It is not an international arrest warrant, as Interpol cannot compel any member country to arrest an individual who is the subject of a red notice. Indonesia, an archipelago of some 250 million people rich in resources, is routinely ranked by watchdog Transparency International as one of the world's most corrupt countries. Former Indonesian energy minister Jero Wacik is serving an eight-year prison term for involvement in extortion and kickbacks worth about $840,000. SERIES OF SETBACKS Defrizal Djamaris, a lawyer representing West Point Terminal's 5-per cent stakeholder, PT Mas Capital Trust (MCT), said MCT reported suspicions of fraud on the project to local police in 2015. The red notices were issued because the three executives had left the country and "not cooperated" with local police investigations, Djamaris said. The police's Amar did not confirm this. The West Point Terminal was touted to be Southeast Asia's largest and was initially expected to be operational by mid-2016, but has faced a series of setbacks including a lawsuit filed by Indonesian shareholders in November. The project in Indonesia's Batam free trade zone to the south of Singapore is 95-per cent owned by Sinopec Kantons Holdings, a subsidiary of Sinopec. Sinopec Kantons bought into the project in January 2012, aiming to develop a 2.6 million-tonne storage facility worth more than $800 million. The project was delayed by several years due to slow demand for tank space, Reuters reported. An official at Indonesia's energy ministry said the downstream operations permit for the West Point Terminal expired in late 2014. Sinopec's only other Indonesian asset is an 18-per cent stake in Chevron's deep water project, bought in 2010. Sinopec Kantons, which is one of Sinopec's smallest subsidiaries, was not immediately available for comment. (Reuters)

Interpol issues red notices for 3 execs linked to $800 million oil fraud, says Indonesia police

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