A Chinese national, Chen Gaochong, wanted for large-scale tax fraud, has been arrested in Lagos and extradited to China in a coordinated effort between the Nigeria Police Force and Chinese law enforcement.
In a statement released on Thursday, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that Chen was apprehended on June 24 by operatives of the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja, following an official request from the Chinese government.
Chen, who had been on the wanted list of the Peixian Public Security Bureau in Jiangsu Province, China, was accused of issuing fraudulent Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices totaling 4.97 million yuan — roughly ₦1.05 trillion — between May and August 2017. He allegedly used two unrelated companies, Linhai Guangyong and Linhai Beilaisi, to issue 45 fake invoices to Xuzhou Wanfeng Plastic Industry Company.
After his fraudulent activities were uncovered, Chen fled China on November 16, 2019, escaping first to Hong Kong and later to Burkina Faso before illegally entering Nigeria in 2021. Authorities said he avoided renewing his passport to conceal his identity and evade capture.
The Chinese government issued an arrest warrant for him on July 9, 2020. His extradition was completed on July 3, 2025, when he was handed over to Chinese officials.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to international justice and the fight against transnational crime. He stressed that Nigeria will not serve as a refuge for fugitives.
“This operation underscores the strength of global cooperation in combating cross-border criminality,” the statement read. “The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to fulfilling its international obligations through mutual legal assistance and collaboration with global law enforcement agencies.”
The successful extradition marks another milestone in Nigeria’s partnership with INTERPOL and foreign governments in tracking down and repatriating international fugitives.
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