China has&nbsp;launched a new plan called "Operation Fox Hunt" with&nbsp;agents pursuing hundreds of Chinese nationals living in the United States and their mission is to force them to return to China.&nbsp;

China has been plagued by a floundering economy, botched up foreign policy and growing global isolation but&nbsp;the Communist Party is on a different mission. China's spies are hunting dissenters&nbsp;around the world making sure that the dirty secrets of the Chinese state don’t see the light of the day.&nbsp;

In fact, China’s Big Brother knows everything - what people say, what they write, and what they do every day, those who follow the rules are rewarded and those who don't are punished. Sometimes, dissenters manage to escape but China now wants to track them down, so it has launched "Operation Fox Hunt".

On Tuesday, FBI director Christopher Wray revealed how Chinese agents are targeting dissidents.&nbsp;

"Fox Hunt is a sweeping bid by general-secretary Xi to target Chinese nationals whom he sees as threats and who live outside of China, across the world. We're talking about political rivals, dissidents and critics seeking to expose China's extensive human rights violations. hundreds of these Fox Hunt victims that they target live here in the United States and many are American citizens or Green Card holders. The Chinese government wants to force them to return to China and China's tactics to accomplish that are shocking," FBI director Christopher Wray said.

Fox hunt was launched six months ago by Xi Jinping. On the face of it, it was a hunt for corrupt officials and business executives, who had fled China but America’s FBI now believes that it's a plan to suppress dissent among the diaspora.&nbsp;

China does not hide Operation Fox Hunt. In fact, it proudly showcases it. The Chinese state media have often run reports about Fox Hunt celebrating it as a success. Five years ago, the Chinese state media claimed that more than 300 fugitives had been arrested under Fox Hunt.&nbsp;

In 2017, that number shot up to well beyond 3000. One of the most high-profile targets of Operation Fox Hunt was Meng Hongwei, the former president of the Interpol. A man who was brought back from France to China,&nbsp;put behind bars and charged with corruption. Now he's in jail serving&nbsp;a 13-year sentence. Meng Hongwei was China’s pride. He was the first Chinese national to lead the Interpol. An appointment that certainly had Xi Jinping’s approval but then they fell apart.

A report from 2018 highlights what could have gone wrong between Xi Jinping and Meng Hongwei. China wanted the Interpol to pursue Dolkun Isa who is a Uighur activist. It’s believed that Meng’s failure to pursue the Chinese warrant made Xi Jinping angry. The case of Meng Hongwei shows the extent to which the Communist Party can go to impose its will on Chinese citizens.&nbsp;

The Orwellian surveillance state wants to silence dissent both at home and abroad.&nbsp;

China has launched a new plan called "Operation Fox Hunt" with agents pursuing hundreds of Chinese nationals living in the United States and their mission is to force them to return to China.

China has launched a new plan called "Operation Fox Hunt" with agents pursuing hundreds of Chinese nationals living in the United States and their mission is to force them to return to China. China has been plagued by a floundering economy, botched up foreign policy and growing global isolation but the Communist Party is on a different mission. China's spies are hunting dissenters around the world making sure that the dirty secrets of the Chinese state don’t see the light of the day. In fact, China’s Big Brother knows everything - what people say, what they write, and what they do every day, those who follow the rules are rewarded and those who don't are punished. Sometimes, dissenters manage to escape but China now wants to track them down, so it has launched "Operation Fox Hunt". On Tuesday, FBI director Christopher Wray revealed how Chinese agents are targeting dissidents. "Fox Hunt is a sweeping bid by general-secretary Xi to target Chinese nationals whom he sees as threats and who live outside of China, across the world. We're talking about political rivals, dissidents and critics seeking to expose China's extensive human rights violations. hundreds of these Fox Hunt victims that they target live here in the United States and many are American citizens or Green Card holders. The Chinese government wants to force them to return to China and China's tactics to accomplish that are shocking," FBI director Christopher Wray said. Fox hunt was launched six months ago by Xi Jinping. On the face of it, it was a hunt for corrupt officials and business executives, who had fled China but America’s FBI now believes that it's a plan to suppress dissent among the diaspora. China does not hide Operation Fox Hunt. In fact, it proudly showcases it. The Chinese state media have often run reports about Fox Hunt celebrating it as a success. Five years ago, the Chinese state media claimed that more than 300 fugitives had been arrested under Fox Hunt. In 2017, that number shot up to well beyond 3000. One of the most high-profile targets of Operation Fox Hunt was Meng Hongwei, the former president of the Interpol. A man who was brought back from France to China, put behind bars and charged with corruption. Now he's in jail serving a 13-year sentence. Meng Hongwei was China’s pride. He was the first Chinese national to lead the Interpol. An appointment that certainly had Xi Jinping’s approval but then they fell apart. A report from 2018 highlights what could have gone wrong between Xi Jinping and Meng Hongwei. China wanted the Interpol to pursue Dolkun Isa who is a Uighur activist. It’s believed that Meng’s failure to pursue the Chinese warrant made Xi Jinping angry. The case of Meng Hongwei shows the extent to which the Communist Party can go to impose its will on Chinese citizens. The Orwellian surveillance state wants to silence dissent both at home and abroad.

China launches Operation Fox Hunt to target dissenters; captures ex-Interpol chief

The wife of one of the two detained Canadians in China has expressed her disappointment over Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's refusal to consider the 'prisoner swap'.

Few days ago, a&nbsp;group of 19 prominent figures, including former cabinet ministers and diplomats, wrote a letter urging Trudeau to halt the extradition proceedings against Meng, with a hope that two detained citizens will finally be let free by China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-rejects-prisoner-swap-of-top-huawei-executive-meng-wanzhou-308720">Also read|&nbsp;Trudeau rejects 'prisoner swap' of top Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou</a>

However, Trudeau rejected the request and said, “(This) would endanger the millions of Canadians who live and travel overseas every single year. We cannot allow political pressures or random arrests of Canadian citizens to influence the functioning of our justice system."

Now, in an interview with a local media channel,&nbsp;Michael Kovrig's wife,&nbsp;Vina Nadjibulla, has expressed disappointment over the lack of efforts from the Canadian government.

"We can do both," she said. "It isn't a question of, 'We need to do everything we can to release Michael,’ or, 'We protect Canadians in the future.' Both have to be on the table, and the government has a responsibility to do both," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/groundless-allegations-china-criticises-canadas-megaphone-diplomacy-over-spy-charges-309115">Also read|&nbsp;Groundless allegations: China criticises Canada's 'megaphone diplomacy' over spy charges</a>

"There is no cost-free solution. We have to pay a price. The question becomes, who pays the highest price, and at the moment Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor are paying that price, and I believe Canadians understand that, that is fundamentally unfair and unjust,"&nbsp;Nadjibulla added.

While she is disappointed by Trudeau, she expressed relief that finally after so long there is at least an open debate on this matter, instead of the matter staying behind closed doors.

"Even though I'm disappointed that the PM said no to this particular solution," Nadjibulla said, "I'm glad that we finally have a conversation on what can be done and options that can be explored to resolve Michael's prolonged and painful detention."

Her statement has come a day after China criticized Canadian government for its "irresponsible" statements and&nbsp;asked the Canadian government to put a stop to its "Megaphone Diplomacy".

(With inputs from agencies)

The wife of one of the two detained Canadians in China has expressed her disappointment over Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's refusal to consider the 'prisoner swap'.

The wife of one of the two detained Canadians in China has expressed her disappointment over Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's refusal to consider the 'prisoner swap'. Few days ago, a group of 19 prominent figures, including former cabinet ministers and diplomats, wrote a letter urging Trudeau to halt the extradition proceedings against Meng, with a hope that two detained citizens will finally be let free by China. Also read| Trudeau rejects 'prisoner swap' of top Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou However, Trudeau rejected the request and said, “(This) would endanger the millions of Canadians who live and travel overseas every single year. We cannot allow political pressures or random arrests of Canadian citizens to influence the functioning of our justice system." Now, in an interview with a local media channel, Michael Kovrig's wife, Vina Nadjibulla, has expressed disappointment over the lack of efforts from the Canadian government. "We can do both," she said. "It isn't a question of, 'We need to do everything we can to release Michael,’ or, 'We protect Canadians in the future.' Both have to be on the table, and the government has a responsibility to do both," she said. Also read| Groundless allegations: China criticises Canada's 'megaphone diplomacy' over spy charges "There is no cost-free solution. We have to pay a price. The question becomes, who pays the highest price, and at the moment Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor are paying that price, and I believe Canadians understand that, that is fundamentally unfair and unjust," Nadjibulla added. While she is disappointed by Trudeau, she expressed relief that finally after so long there is at least an open debate on this matter, instead of the matter staying behind closed doors. "Even though I'm disappointed that the PM said no to this particular solution," Nadjibulla said, "I'm glad that we finally have a conversation on what can be done and options that can be explored to resolve Michael's prolonged and painful detention." Her statement has come a day after China criticized Canadian government for its "irresponsible" statements and asked the Canadian government to put a stop to its "Megaphone Diplomacy". (With inputs from agencies)

We can do both: Canadian detainee's wife disappointed after Trudeau rejects 'prisoner swap'

The wife of the former head of Interpol, who was detained in his native China, said on Sunday she had sued the global police cooperation agency for failing to protect his family and complicity in what she called China's "wrongful acts".

Grace Meng first publicly reported in early October 2018 that her husband Meng Hongwei had gone missing, after he travelled back to China on Sept. 25 from their home in France where the organisation is based.

Days after she reported him missing, Interpol on Oct. 7 said he had resigned as its president. He has not been seen since.

An Interpol spokesman said Grace Meng's allegations were "baseless" and the agency denied being complicit or having "any involvement with China's actions against" her husband.

In a statement, Grace Meng she had started legal proceedings against Interpol at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, adding that Interpol had failed to protect and assist her family and is "complicit in the internationally wrongful acts of its member country, China".

"A tribunal will be constituted and will decide whether my husband's disappearance is only a matter for the relevant authorities in both France and China, as alleged by Interpol, or whether Interpol itself breached its obligations owed to my family," the statement, released by her lawyers, added.

She also said Interpol had threatened her with legal action for speaking out, an accusation Interpol denied.

"Interpol forcefully disputes any allegations that it threatened Mrs Meng," the Interpol spokesman said.

Months after Meng's disappearance, Chinese prosecutors filed charges against him, accusing him of abuse of power and taking bribes.

In March, China's ruling Communist Party said its own investigation into Meng found he spent lavish amounts of state funds, abused his power and refused to follow party decisions.

His wife has dismissed the allegations and said his arrest was politically motivated.

She applied for, and was granted, asylum by the French authorities in May.

Meng became president of Interpol in late 2016 as China widened its bid to secure leadership posts in international organisations. His appointment prompted concern at the time from rights groups that China might try to leverage his position to pursue dissidents abroad. Under President Xi Jinping, China has pursued a sweeping crackdown on official corruption.

The wife of the former head of Interpol, who was detained in his native China, said on Sunday she had sued the global police cooperation agency for failing to protect his family and complicity in what she called China's "wrongful acts".

The wife of the former head of Interpol, who was detained in his native China, said on Sunday she had sued the global police cooperation agency for failing to protect his family and complicity in what she called China's "wrongful acts". Grace Meng first publicly reported in early October 2018 that her husband Meng Hongwei had gone missing, after he travelled back to China on Sept. 25 from their home in France where the organisation is based. Days after she reported him missing, Interpol on Oct. 7 said he had resigned as its president. He has not been seen since. An Interpol spokesman said Grace Meng's allegations were "baseless" and the agency denied being complicit or having "any involvement with China's actions against" her husband. In a statement, Grace Meng she had started legal proceedings against Interpol at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, adding that Interpol had failed to protect and assist her family and is "complicit in the internationally wrongful acts of its member country, China". "A tribunal will be constituted and will decide whether my husband's disappearance is only a matter for the relevant authorities in both France and China, as alleged by Interpol, or whether Interpol itself breached its obligations owed to my family," the statement, released by her lawyers, added. She also said Interpol had threatened her with legal action for speaking out, an accusation Interpol denied. "Interpol forcefully disputes any allegations that it threatened Mrs Meng," the Interpol spokesman said. Months after Meng's disappearance, Chinese prosecutors filed charges against him, accusing him of abuse of power and taking bribes. In March, China's ruling Communist Party said its own investigation into Meng found he spent lavish amounts of state funds, abused his power and refused to follow party decisions. His wife has dismissed the allegations and said his arrest was politically motivated. She applied for, and was granted, asylum by the French authorities in May. Meng became president of Interpol in late 2016 as China widened its bid to secure leadership posts in international organisations. His appointment prompted concern at the time from rights groups that China might try to leverage his position to pursue dissidents abroad. Under President Xi Jinping, China has pursued a sweeping crackdown on official corruption.

Wife of China's Meng, former Interpol chief, sues agency

Former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei pleaded guilty at a trial in China on Thursday to accepting $2.1 million in bribes - a remarkable fall from grace for the former vice minister of public security.

Meng "showed repentance" during the hearing, said the Tianjin Number 1 Intermediate People's Court in northern China.

The verdict will be announced at a "select date or time", it added in a statement on Weibo, a Twitter-like platform.

Meng is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies.

He vanished last September during a visit to China from France, where Interpol is based, and was later accused of accepting bribes and expelled from the Communist Party.

In May, his wife Grace Meng was granted political asylum in France, after saying she was afraid she and her two children would be the targets of kidnapping attempts.

Former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei pleaded guilty at a trial in China on Thursday to accepting $2.1 million in bribes - a remarkable fall from grace for the former vice minister of public security.

Former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei pleaded guilty at a trial in China on Thursday to accepting $2.1 million in bribes - a remarkable fall from grace for the former vice minister of public security. Meng "showed repentance" during the hearing, said the Tianjin Number 1 Intermediate People's Court in northern China. The verdict will be announced at a "select date or time", it added in a statement on Weibo, a Twitter-like platform. Meng is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies. He vanished last September during a visit to China from France, where Interpol is based, and was later accused of accepting bribes and expelled from the Communist Party. In May, his wife Grace Meng was granted political asylum in France, after saying she was afraid she and her two children would be the targets of kidnapping attempts.

China's former Interpol chief pleads guilty to bribery

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-is-no-clash-between-different-civilisations-says-president-xi-amid-us-china-trade-war-218993">There is no clash between different civilisations, says President Xi amid US-China trade war</a>

Chinese President Xi Jinping declared Wednesday there was "no clash" of civilisations and denounced racial supremacy as "stupid" amid tensions with the United States and concerns over Beijing's rising global power.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-gives-wing-commander-abhinandan-falcon-slayer-patch-for-striking-down-pak-f-16-218982">IAF gives Wing Commander Abhinandan 'falcon slayer' patch for striking down Pak F-16</a>

The Indian Air Force(IAF) has given the "Falcon slayer" patch to Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman after he reportedly shot down a Pakistani F-16 during an air duel on February 27th with the Pakistan Air Force(PAF) post the Balakot strikes a day earlier.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/would-be-abuse-of-french-legal-system-if-ex-interpol-chiefs-wife-wanted-political-asylum-in-france-china-218936">Would be abuse of French legal system if ex-Interpol chief's wife wanted political asylum in France: China</a>

China on Wednesday said France granting asylum to the wife of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei - who has been charged in China with accepting bribes - would be an abuse of its own legal procedures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-moon-mission-chandrayaan-2-will-have-13-payloads-isro-218948">Chandrayaan-2 will have 13 payloads, one passive experiment from NASA: ISRO</a>

India's second Moon mission that is planned for a July launch will have 13 payloads and one passive experiment from American space agency NASA, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-curb-live-streaming-amid-pressure-over-christchurch-call-218959">Facebook to curb live streaming amid pressure over 'Christchurch Call'</a>

Facebook announced Wednesday it would tighten access to its live streaming feature as New Zealand's premier Jacinda Ardern and French leader Emmanuel Macron prepared to launch the global "Christchurch Call" initiative to tackle the spread of extremism online.

There is no clash between different civilisations, says President Xi amid US-China trade war Chinese President Xi Jinping declared Wednesday there was "no clash" of civilisations and denounced racial supremacy as "stupid" amid tensions with the United States and concerns over Beijing's rising global power.

There is no clash between different civilisations, says President Xi amid US-China trade war Chinese President Xi Jinping declared Wednesday there was "no clash" of civilisations and denounced racial supremacy as "stupid" amid tensions with the United States and concerns over Beijing's rising global power. IAF gives Wing Commander Abhinandan 'falcon slayer' patch for striking down Pak F-16 The Indian Air Force(IAF) has given the "Falcon slayer" patch to Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman after he reportedly shot down a Pakistani F-16 during an air duel on February 27th with the Pakistan Air Force(PAF) post the Balakot strikes a day earlier. Would be abuse of French legal system if ex-Interpol chief's wife wanted political asylum in France: China China on Wednesday said France granting asylum to the wife of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei - who has been charged in China with accepting bribes - would be an abuse of its own legal procedures. Chandrayaan-2 will have 13 payloads, one passive experiment from NASA: ISRO India's second Moon mission that is planned for a July launch will have 13 payloads and one passive experiment from American space agency NASA, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said Wednesday. Facebook to curb live streaming amid pressure over 'Christchurch Call' Facebook announced Wednesday it would tighten access to its live streaming feature as New Zealand's premier Jacinda Ardern and French leader Emmanuel Macron prepared to launch the global "Christchurch Call" initiative to tackle the spread of extremism online.

News brief: Big stories of the day

China on Wednesday said France granting asylum to the wife of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-expels-ex-interpol-chief-meng-from-communist-party-206008">former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei</a> - who has been charged in China with accepting bribes - would be an abuse of its own legal procedures.

"There is no so-called political persecution," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, days after Grace Meng's lawyer in France said she had been granted asylum.

"If Meng Hongwei's wife wanted to apply for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-us-is-meddling-in-selection-of-interpol-head-178418">political asylum in France</a>, it would be an abuse of French legal procedures."&nbsp;

Grace Meng, who was given police protection after she alleged an abduction attempt at the start of the year, was granted asylum on May 2 along with the couple's two children, their lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny said.

Good mutual trust is the foundation of developing a stable and healthy relationship between China and France," China's foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang added.

Meng Hongwei disappeared last September after leaving the French city of Lyon, where Interpol is based, for China. He later sent his wife a social media message telling her to "wait for my call," and then a knife emoji signifying danger.

A few weeks later Interpol was informed that Meng, the first Chinese president at the international police agency, had resigned, with China later saying he was being held on suspicion of taking bribes.

He was officially charged this month with accepting bribes that allowed him to illegally obtain several properties while Marine Police chief and vice minister in China.

China on Wednesday said France granting asylum to the wife of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei - who has been charged in China with accepting bribes - would be an abuse of its own legal procedures.

China on Wednesday said France granting asylum to the wife of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei - who has been charged in China with accepting bribes - would be an abuse of its own legal procedures. "There is no so-called political persecution," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, days after Grace Meng's lawyer in France said she had been granted asylum. "If Meng Hongwei's wife wanted to apply for political asylum in France, it would be an abuse of French legal procedures." Grace Meng, who was given police protection after she alleged an abduction attempt at the start of the year, was granted asylum on May 2 along with the couple's two children, their lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny said. Good mutual trust is the foundation of developing a stable and healthy relationship between China and France," China's foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang added. Meng Hongwei disappeared last September after leaving the French city of Lyon, where Interpol is based, for China. He later sent his wife a social media message telling her to "wait for my call," and then a knife emoji signifying danger. A few weeks later Interpol was informed that Meng, the first Chinese president at the international police agency, had resigned, with China later saying he was being held on suspicion of taking bribes. He was officially charged this month with accepting bribes that allowed him to illegally obtain several properties while Marine Police chief and vice minister in China.

Would be abuse of French legal system if ex-Interpol chief's wife wanted political asylum in France: China

The wife and children of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-charges-ex-interpol-chief-with-accepting-bribes-217520">former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei</a>, who vanished while visiting China in September last year, have been granted political asylum in France, the family's lawyer told AFP on Monday.

Grace Meng, who was given police protection after she alleged an abduction attempt at the start of the year, was granted asylum on May 2 along with the couple's two children, their lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny said.

Meng Hongwei disappeared last September after leaving the French city of Lyon, where Interpol is based, for China. He later sent his wife a social media message telling her to "wait for my call," and then a knife emoji signifying danger.

A few weeks later Interpol was informed that Meng, the first Chinese president at the international police agency, had resigned, with China later saying he was being held on suspicion of taking bribes.

He was officially charged this month with accepting bribes that allowed him to illegally obtain several properties while Marine Police chief and vice minister in China.

But his wife said recently that Chinese officials had presented "no proof whatsoever to back up their charges."

In French media interviews she has said she fears for her life, and was afraid she and her seven-year-old twins would be the targets of kidnapping attempts.

In January, when she lodged her asylum request, she told Liberation newspaper that two Chinese businessmen, one of whom she knew, visited her at home in October and invited her to travel with them by private jet to the Czech Republic.

She also said that later that month, the Chinese consulate in Lyon said they had a letter for her from her husband, but insisted she show up in person to collect it.

She also reported receiving "strange phone calls" and said she was once followed into a hotel by a Chinese couple who attempted to gather information about her.

Meng Hongwei is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies.

He has since been replaced as president of Interpol by South Korea's Kim Jong-yang.

The wife and children of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei, who vanished while visiting China in September last year, have been granted political asylum in France, the family's lawyer told AFP on Monday.

The wife and children of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei, who vanished while visiting China in September last year, have been granted political asylum in France, the family's lawyer told AFP on Monday. Grace Meng, who was given police protection after she alleged an abduction attempt at the start of the year, was granted asylum on May 2 along with the couple's two children, their lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny said. Meng Hongwei disappeared last September after leaving the French city of Lyon, where Interpol is based, for China. He later sent his wife a social media message telling her to "wait for my call," and then a knife emoji signifying danger. A few weeks later Interpol was informed that Meng, the first Chinese president at the international police agency, had resigned, with China later saying he was being held on suspicion of taking bribes. He was officially charged this month with accepting bribes that allowed him to illegally obtain several properties while Marine Police chief and vice minister in China. But his wife said recently that Chinese officials had presented "no proof whatsoever to back up their charges." In French media interviews she has said she fears for her life, and was afraid she and her seven-year-old twins would be the targets of kidnapping attempts. In January, when she lodged her asylum request, she told Liberation newspaper that two Chinese businessmen, one of whom she knew, visited her at home in October and invited her to travel with them by private jet to the Czech Republic. She also said that later that month, the Chinese consulate in Lyon said they had a letter for her from her husband, but insisted she show up in person to collect it. She also reported receiving "strange phone calls" and said she was once followed into a hotel by a Chinese couple who attempted to gather information about her. Meng Hongwei is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies. He has since been replaced as president of Interpol by South Korea's Kim Jong-yang.

Wife of Chinese ex-Interpol boss granted asylum in France: Lawyer

China has charged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-expels-ex-interpol-chief-meng-from-communist-party-206008">former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei</a> with accepting bribes and abusing his position, prosecutors announced Friday.&nbsp;

In a remarkable fall from grace, Meng -- who had served as vice minister of public security -- vanished last September during a visit to China from France, where Interpol is based and was later accused of accepting bribes.

Meng had abused his positions as Marine Police chief and vice minister to illegally obtain "extremely large" amounts of property, the Supreme People's Procuratorate said in a statement.&nbsp;

Following an investigation by prosecutors in the eastern city of Tianjin, charges were brought against him in a court in the same city.

"According to the law, he should bear criminal responsibility for accepting bribes," the statement said.&nbsp;

Meng had earlier been expelled from the Communist Party and stripped of his official positions, as the powerful Public Security Ministry sought to distance itself from him.&nbsp;

In March, the ministry said that Meng's "poisonous influence" had to be "thoroughly eliminated", and that it was investigating other party cadres involved in Meng's case.

He resigned from his Interpol post shortly after he was detained in China.

Meng is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies.

Over one million officials have been punished so far during Xi's six-year tenure.

China has charged former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei with accepting bribes and abusing his position, prosecutors announced Friday. In a remarkable fall from grace, Meng -- who had served as vice minister of public security -- vanished last September during a visit to China from France, where Interpol is based and was later accused of accepting bribes.

China has charged former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei with accepting bribes and abusing his position, prosecutors announced Friday. In a remarkable fall from grace, Meng -- who had served as vice minister of public security -- vanished last September during a visit to China from France, where Interpol is based and was later accused of accepting bribes. Meng had abused his positions as Marine Police chief and vice minister to illegally obtain "extremely large" amounts of property, the Supreme People's Procuratorate said in a statement. Following an investigation by prosecutors in the eastern city of Tianjin, charges were brought against him in a court in the same city. "According to the law, he should bear criminal responsibility for accepting bribes," the statement said. Meng had earlier been expelled from the Communist Party and stripped of his official positions, as the powerful Public Security Ministry sought to distance itself from him. In March, the ministry said that Meng's "poisonous influence" had to be "thoroughly eliminated", and that it was investigating other party cadres involved in Meng's case. He resigned from his Interpol post shortly after he was detained in China. Meng is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies. Over one million officials have been punished so far during Xi's six-year tenure.

China charges ex-Interpol chief Meng Hongwei with accepting bribes

China has expelled<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-interpol-chief-meng-rose-under-zhou-rival-of-president-xi-170297"> former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei </a>from the Communist Party and dismissed him from his official positions, the country's graft watchdog announced Wednesday.

Meng, who served as the vice minister of public security, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/interpol-demands-china-clarification-on-missing-police-chief-169881">disappeared last year </a>during a visit to China from France and was later accused of accepting bribes.

"Meng Hongwei has no party principle... does not report personal matters in accordance with regulations... and refuses to implement the decision of the Party Central Committee," the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection said in a statement.

Meng had used state assets to support his family's lavish lifestyle while abusing his position to get his wife employment, the watchdog added.&nbsp;

The case has been handed over to the state prosecutor's office, and his "illegal income" has been confiscated, it added.

Last week, Meng's wife Grace, who is based in France has been actively campaigning for him, urged French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss her husband's case with Xi Jinping during the Chinese president's official visit to Paris.

In her written appeal, Grace Meng demanded that her husband be allowed to receive visits from his lawyers.

China has expelled former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei from the Communist Party and dismissed him from his official positions, the country's graft watchdog announced Wednesday.

China has expelled former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei from the Communist Party and dismissed him from his official positions, the country's graft watchdog announced Wednesday. Meng, who served as the vice minister of public security, disappeared last year during a visit to China from France and was later accused of accepting bribes. "Meng Hongwei has no party principle... does not report personal matters in accordance with regulations... and refuses to implement the decision of the Party Central Committee," the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection said in a statement. Meng had used state assets to support his family's lavish lifestyle while abusing his position to get his wife employment, the watchdog added. The case has been handed over to the state prosecutor's office, and his "illegal income" has been confiscated, it added. Last week, Meng's wife Grace, who is based in France has been actively campaigning for him, urged French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss her husband's case with Xi Jinping during the Chinese president's official visit to Paris. In her written appeal, Grace Meng demanded that her husband be allowed to receive visits from his lawyers.

China expels ex-Interpol chief Meng from Communist Party

China declared today it was "resolutely"<a href="http://www.wionews.com/americas/canada-seeks-help-of-allies-for-release-of-detainees-in-china-185916"> opposed to Canada demanding</a> release of two detained citizens as relations between the two countries continued to decline.

Beijing had detained two Canadians - <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-us-call-for-immediate-release-of-two-canadians-held-by-china-185757">ex-diplomat, Michael Kovrig and businessman</a> Michael Spavor, just days after the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou on December 1.

"The Chinese side expressed strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to the statements made by Canada and the US," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.

China had said that Michael Spavor, who worked with the North Korean government was being held for suspicious activities which harmed China's security.

Reports last week said a third Canadian, Sarah McIver, was also being held pending deportation for working illegally in China.

Earlier, China had criticised Britain and the European Union accusing it of "double standards" for not mentioning a senior Chinese executive, Meng Wanzhou's arrest in Vancouver, Canada.

China had said that Canada must release Chinese citizen, Meng Wanzhou, held "illegally" in the country. Meng was arrested after Washington insisted that Huawei was trading with Iran despite US sanctions.

Men denied the charge.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lu had said Meng's arrest was a "mistaken action". He urged Canada to immediately release her although the Huawei CFO was released after being arrested but her bail was "conditional" with the Canadian judge barring her from leaving the country.

Canadian foreign minister Chrystia Freeland, on the other hand, had said last week that Meng's extradition process should not be politicised after US President Trump said he would intervene in the case.

If the Canadian judge rules in favour of the US extradition request, Canada's justice minister must next decide whether to extradite Meng to the United States.

China declared today it was "resolutely" opposed to Canada demanding release of two detained citizens as relations between the two countries continued to decline.

China declared today it was "resolutely" opposed to Canada demanding release of two detained citizens as relations between the two countries continued to decline. Beijing had detained two Canadians - ex-diplomat, Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, just days after the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou on December 1. "The Chinese side expressed strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to the statements made by Canada and the US," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said. China had said that Michael Spavor, who worked with the North Korean government was being held for suspicious activities which harmed China's security. Reports last week said a third Canadian, Sarah McIver, was also being held pending deportation for working illegally in China. Earlier, China had criticised Britain and the European Union accusing it of "double standards" for not mentioning a senior Chinese executive, Meng Wanzhou's arrest in Vancouver, Canada. China had said that Canada must release Chinese citizen, Meng Wanzhou, held "illegally" in the country. Meng was arrested after Washington insisted that Huawei was trading with Iran despite US sanctions. Men denied the charge. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lu had said Meng's arrest was a "mistaken action". He urged Canada to immediately release her although the Huawei CFO was released after being arrested but her bail was "conditional" with the Canadian judge barring her from leaving the country. Canadian foreign minister Chrystia Freeland, on the other hand, had said last week that Meng's extradition process should not be politicised after US President Trump said he would intervene in the case. If the Canadian judge rules in favour of the US extradition request, Canada's justice minister must next decide whether to extradite Meng to the United States.

Resolutely oppose demand to free two detained Canadians: China

China will expel former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei from a high profile though largely ceremonial advisory body to parliament, state media reported, after the Chinese government put him under investigation for bribery and other violations.

Under President Xi Jinping, China has been engaged in a sweeping crackdown on official corruption.

Earlier this month, Interpol, the France-based global police coordination body, said that Meng had resigned as its president, after French authorities said the Chinese official had been reported missing by his wife after travelling to his home country.

It is unclear where Meng is being held and it has not been possible to reach him for comment. It is also unclear if he has been allowed to retain legal representation.

In the latest move by the Chinese government against Meng, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, which advises parliament though has no legislative powers, has decided to dismiss him from the body, state media said late on Friday.

The decision still needs formal approval from the body's standing committee, the official Xinhua news agency said, though this will only be a formality.

Meng had been a member of the body's foreign affairs committee.

Members of the advisory body do not enjoy immunity from prosecution, unlike members of China's largely rubber-stamp parliament.

Meng, 64 and a deputy minister of public security, became president of the global police cooperation agency in late 2016 amid a broader effort by China to secure leadership posts in international organisations.

His appointment prompted concern at the time from rights groups that Beijing might try to leverage his position to pursue dissidents abroad.

China will expel former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei from a high profile though largely ceremonial advisory body to parliament, state media reported, after the Chinese government put him under investigation for bribery and other violations.

China will expel former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei from a high profile though largely ceremonial advisory body to parliament, state media reported, after the Chinese government put him under investigation for bribery and other violations. Under President Xi Jinping, China has been engaged in a sweeping crackdown on official corruption. Earlier this month, Interpol, the France-based global police coordination body, said that Meng had resigned as its president, after French authorities said the Chinese official had been reported missing by his wife after travelling to his home country. It is unclear where Meng is being held and it has not been possible to reach him for comment. It is also unclear if he has been allowed to retain legal representation. In the latest move by the Chinese government against Meng, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, which advises parliament though has no legislative powers, has decided to dismiss him from the body, state media said late on Friday. The decision still needs formal approval from the body's standing committee, the official Xinhua news agency said, though this will only be a formality. Meng had been a member of the body's foreign affairs committee. Members of the advisory body do not enjoy immunity from prosecution, unlike members of China's largely rubber-stamp parliament. Meng, 64 and a deputy minister of public security, became president of the global police cooperation agency in late 2016 amid a broader effort by China to secure leadership posts in international organisations. His appointment prompted concern at the time from rights groups that Beijing might try to leverage his position to pursue dissidents abroad.

China to expel former Interpol chief from advisory body

Beijing's international image took a self-inflicted bruising with a secretive investigation into the former Chinese head of Interpol, highlighting its ruthless tactics even as it seeks global goodwill in a trade spat with the United States, analysts said.

The election of Meng Hongwei as head of Interpol in 2016 was a triumph for President Xi Jinping's bid to burnish China's international profile through leadership posts in prestigious global organisations.

But midway through his four-year term, Meng vanished after travelling to China from France, where Interpol is based. After days of silence, authorities accused him of taking bribes and he resigned.

The Chinese vice public security minister's abrupt disappearance late last month caught Interpol off-guard, an embarrassing situation for an organisation whose mission is international police cooperation.

It was also a stark reminder to the world of the Communist Party's harsh investigative tactics, which contrast with the due process and open court system afforded to suspects in democratic countries.

China has said that Meng's fall from grace is evidence that no one is above the law. But critics who see Xi's six-year anti-corruption campaign as a tool to root out his political enemies are sceptical.

"This will have a detrimental impact on China's soft power," said Willy Lam, politics professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

"It plays into the Americans' hands, adding more fodder to US attacks against China and the lack of rule of law," he said, referring to Vice President Mike Pence's searing speech last week assailing China's human rights record, foreign policies and trade practices.

Seemingly kept in the dark by China, French police opened an investigation into his disappearance and Interpol asked for a "clarification" from Beijing on Saturday.

But it was not until Monday that Chinese authorities revealed that Meng was being investigated for taking bribes, without providing details about the charges or his whereabouts.

In one ominous sign, several posts on meetings and activities Meng participated in over recent years disappeared from the public security ministry's website Monday as an AFP reporter viewed them -- effectively erasing him from the agency's history.

Adding to the intrigue, his wife Grace Meng spoke with her face hidden from cameras in Lyon on Sunday, telling reporters she did not know what had happened to her husband and showing his last text message to her: a knife emoji signalling danger.

'No exceptions' 
The organ investigating Meng, the National Supervisory Commission, can hold suspects for as long as six months without providing access to legal counsel.

Xi's anti-graft campaign has punished more than one million officials, and is popular with citizens who are fed up with endemic corruption. But some analysts say it also enables the Chinese president to eliminate rivals.

One of the most powerful to fall was former security ministry chief Zhou Yongkang, who promoted Meng more than a decade ago and was sentenced to life in prison in 2014.

The public security ministry said Meng's case shows "that no one is above the law" and underscores the need to "thoroughly eliminate the pernicious influence of Zhou Yongkang".

The state-run Global Times cited Tuesday a professor from a Communist Party school as saying that Meng's crimes might not be just related to corruption but that he could also have "jeopardised national security".

Lam speculated that the anti-graft agency may have discovered something that sowed doubts about Meng's allegiances, and "Xi needs absolute loyalty".

Beijing's handling of the case will make it harder for Chinese to take prominent spots at global bodies in the future, Lam said.

Bonnie Glaser, senior Asia adviser at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies, said international organisations "should think twice going forward before considering a Chinese candidate to be its head."

"Unless Interpol presses for an open investigation and due process for Meng Hongwei, it is definitely going to be criticised. How can the world's police organisation simply do nothing?"

Saving face? 
But Cheng Xiaohe, an international relations professor at Renmin University, said that while the case "damages" China's image, it also demonstrates that it "does not care too much about saving face in anti-corruption matters".

It shows "regardless of what damage is done to China's international image, the Chinese Communist Party and government will not be soft on corruption, and will punish those who deserve to be punished," he said.

Foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said Monday that China would continue to act as a "responsible power" that will "play its necessary role in international affairs and multilateral organisations."

But Meng's contributions were scrubbed from the security ministry's website, including a speech at an Interpol ceremony for fallen officers in March in which he hailed the "real heroes".

"As the world's largest police cooperative organisation," he said, "Interpol has the responsibility and obligation to highlight the contribution of the police officers in public service, to remember their deeds and to comfort their families."

Beijing's international image took a self-inflicted bruising with a secretive investigation into the former Chinese head of Interpol, highlighting its ruthless tactics even as it seeks global goodwill in a trade spat with the United States, analysts said.

Beijing's international image took a self-inflicted bruising with a secretive investigation into the former Chinese head of Interpol, highlighting its ruthless tactics even as it seeks global goodwill in a trade spat with the United States, analysts said. The election of Meng Hongwei as head of Interpol in 2016 was a triumph for President Xi Jinping's bid to burnish China's international profile through leadership posts in prestigious global organisations. But midway through his four-year term, Meng vanished after travelling to China from France, where Interpol is based. After days of silence, authorities accused him of taking bribes and he resigned. The Chinese vice public security minister's abrupt disappearance late last month caught Interpol off-guard, an embarrassing situation for an organisation whose mission is international police cooperation. It was also a stark reminder to the world of the Communist Party's harsh investigative tactics, which contrast with the due process and open court system afforded to suspects in democratic countries. China has said that Meng's fall from grace is evidence that no one is above the law. But critics who see Xi's six-year anti-corruption campaign as a tool to root out his political enemies are sceptical. "This will have a detrimental impact on China's soft power," said Willy Lam, politics professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. "It plays into the Americans' hands, adding more fodder to US attacks against China and the lack of rule of law," he said, referring to Vice President Mike Pence's searing speech last week assailing China's human rights record, foreign policies and trade practices. Seemingly kept in the dark by China, French police opened an investigation into his disappearance and Interpol asked for a "clarification" from Beijing on Saturday. But it was not until Monday that Chinese authorities revealed that Meng was being investigated for taking bribes, without providing details about the charges or his whereabouts. In one ominous sign, several posts on meetings and activities Meng participated in over recent years disappeared from the public security ministry's website Monday as an AFP reporter viewed them -- effectively erasing him from the agency's history. Adding to the intrigue, his wife Grace Meng spoke with her face hidden from cameras in Lyon on Sunday, telling reporters she did not know what had happened to her husband and showing his last text message to her: a knife emoji signalling danger. 'No exceptions' The organ investigating Meng, the National Supervisory Commission, can hold suspects for as long as six months without providing access to legal counsel. Xi's anti-graft campaign has punished more than one million officials, and is popular with citizens who are fed up with endemic corruption. But some analysts say it also enables the Chinese president to eliminate rivals. One of the most powerful to fall was former security ministry chief Zhou Yongkang, who promoted Meng more than a decade ago and was sentenced to life in prison in 2014. The public security ministry said Meng's case shows "that no one is above the law" and underscores the need to "thoroughly eliminate the pernicious influence of Zhou Yongkang". The state-run Global Times cited Tuesday a professor from a Communist Party school as saying that Meng's crimes might not be just related to corruption but that he could also have "jeopardised national security". Lam speculated that the anti-graft agency may have discovered something that sowed doubts about Meng's allegiances, and "Xi needs absolute loyalty". Beijing's handling of the case will make it harder for Chinese to take prominent spots at global bodies in the future, Lam said. Bonnie Glaser, senior Asia adviser at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies, said international organisations "should think twice going forward before considering a Chinese candidate to be its head." "Unless Interpol presses for an open investigation and due process for Meng Hongwei, it is definitely going to be criticised. How can the world's police organisation simply do nothing?" Saving face? But Cheng Xiaohe, an international relations professor at Renmin University, said that while the case "damages" China's image, it also demonstrates that it "does not care too much about saving face in anti-corruption matters". It shows "regardless of what damage is done to China's international image, the Chinese Communist Party and government will not be soft on corruption, and will punish those who deserve to be punished," he said. Foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said Monday that China would continue to act as a "responsible power" that will "play its necessary role in international affairs and multilateral organisations." But Meng's contributions were scrubbed from the security ministry's website, including a speech at an Interpol ceremony for fallen officers in March in which he hailed the "real heroes". "As the world's largest police cooperative organisation," he said, "Interpol has the responsibility and obligation to highlight the contribution of the police officers in public service, to remember their deeds and to comfort their families."

Interpol saga hurts China's bid to lead global bodies: Analysts

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

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

French police have opened an investigation into the whereabouts of the president of international police cooperation agency Interpol, after his wife reported he had gone missing after travelling home to his native China last week.

The wife of Interpol head Meng Hongwei contacted police in Lyon, the French city where the agency has its headquarters, after not hearing from her husband since he travelled to China on September 29, police sources said. The investigation was first reported by French radio Europe 1.

Calls to an Interpol spokeswoman went unanswered.

Interpol's main function is to provide a mechanism for police forces in different countries to notify each other of wanted suspects.

Meng has held several senior positions in China including vice minister of public security.

He was named president of Interpol in 2016. Rights groups expressed concern at the time that Beijing might try to use Meng's position at the body to go after dissidents abroad.

Beijing has tried for many years to enlist the help of foreign countries to arrest and deport back to China citizens it accuses of crimes including corruption and terrorism.&nbsp;

Reuters was not immediately able to reach China's Ministry of Public Security for comment.

French police have opened an investigation into the whereabouts of the president of international police cooperation agency Interpol, after his wife reported he had gone missing after travelling home to his native China last week.

French police have opened an investigation into the whereabouts of the president of international police cooperation agency Interpol, after his wife reported he had gone missing after travelling home to his native China last week. The wife of Interpol head Meng Hongwei contacted police in Lyon, the French city where the agency has its headquarters, after not hearing from her husband since he travelled to China on September 29, police sources said. The investigation was first reported by French radio Europe 1. Calls to an Interpol spokeswoman went unanswered. Interpol's main function is to provide a mechanism for police forces in different countries to notify each other of wanted suspects. Meng has held several senior positions in China including vice minister of public security. He was named president of Interpol in 2016. Rights groups expressed concern at the time that Beijing might try to use Meng's position at the body to go after dissidents abroad. Beijing has tried for many years to enlist the help of foreign countries to arrest and deport back to China citizens it accuses of crimes including corruption and terrorism. Reuters was not immediately able to reach China's Ministry of Public Security for comment.

Probe opens in France after Interpol chief reported missing in China

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