In a major victory for international law enforcement, the Nigeria Police Force has successfully repatriated a notorious Chinese gang leader, Dai Qisheng, who fled his home country after being declared wanted by authorities in Guizhou Province, China. Dai, who was accused of orchestrating a series of violent crimes, was tracked down in Abuja in early August 2025 following an intelligence-led operation by the Nigeria Police, working closely with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) and Chinese security agencies.
According to official reports, Dai Qisheng fled China in 2024 after a warrant for his arrest was issued. He was believed to have been leading a criminal syndicate responsible for extortion, violence, and other forms of organized crime. In an attempt to evade justice, Dai reportedly relocated to Abuja, where he lived under the radar for several months. However, his time on the run was cut short when Interpol’s National Central Bureaus in Abuja and Beijing launched a coordinated investigation that eventually pinpointed his location.
On August 8, 2025, Nigerian security operatives, acting on intelligence from Interpol and the Chinese authorities, apprehended Dai in Abuja. Less than a week later, on August 15, he was officially handed over to Chinese law enforcement in a carefully planned police-to-police operation. The repatriation was conducted under the framework of international cooperation agreements, which allow countries to collaborate on apprehending fugitives across borders.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, hailed the operation as a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to international security and the fight against transnational organized crime. Speaking during a briefing, the IGP emphasized that Nigeria will never serve as a safe haven for criminals or fugitives, regardless of their nationality. He also commended the officers who took part in the successful operation, noting that their professionalism and collaboration with foreign counterparts were critical to its success.
“This milestone achievement is a testament to the Nigeria Police Force’s growing capacity in international policing and intelligence sharing,” IGP Egbetokun said. “It also highlights the importance of cooperation between nations in ensuring that fugitives cannot escape justice by simply crossing borders.”
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria also expressed gratitude to the Nigerian authorities for their role in apprehending and repatriating Dai. Chinese officials noted that his arrest would send a strong message to criminal syndicates operating internationally, reinforcing that law enforcement agencies worldwide are working together more closely than ever before.
The successful operation is particularly significant given the increasing trend of criminals attempting to evade arrest by fleeing to other countries. Nigeria, with its growing status as a key player in international policing networks, has been stepping up its efforts to curb organized crime, human trafficking, terrorism financing, and cybercrime. By cooperating with Interpol and other security agencies globally, Nigerian law enforcement has demonstrated that fugitives will find no safe haven within its borders.
This case also highlights the role of Interpol in bridging security gaps between countries. Interpol operates a global police communication system that allows member countries, including Nigeria and China, to share intelligence in real time. Through its Red Notice system, Interpol alerts law enforcement agencies worldwide about fugitives wanted for prosecution or sentencing, enabling quick responses and collaborative investigations. Dai’s capture and repatriation underscore the effectiveness of this system in bringing criminals to justice.
For Nigeria, this success strengthens its reputation as a proactive law enforcement partner on the global stage. It also reassures Nigerian citizens and international partners that the country is serious about security, both within and beyond its borders. This is especially important at a time when cross-border crime syndicates are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting technology and international networks to evade capture.
As Dai Qisheng faces trial in China, law enforcement agencies in both countries have pledged to continue working together to dismantle transnational crime networks. This operation may also set a precedent for future collaborations, ensuring that fugitives can no longer exploit jurisdictional loopholes to escape justice.
Ultimately, this case demonstrates the growing importance of international police cooperation. By leveraging intelligence sharing, advanced technology, and diplomatic channels, countries can work together to ensure that criminals are held accountable for their actions, regardless of where they try to hide. The repatriation of Dai Qisheng is not just a victory for Nigeria and China but a win for global security and justice.
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