The Nigeria Police Force has arrested and repatriated a Chinese national wanted by authorities in China over his alleged involvement in the smuggling of a large quantity of African rosewood.
The suspect, identified as Zhang Shijie, was arrested in the Ogere area of Ogun State after reportedly fleeing China and entering Nigeria.
According to the police, Chinese customs authorities had declared Zhang wanted over allegations that he was involved in the illegal export of about 1,400 tonnes of endangered African rosewood, valued at more than 15.7 million Chinese yuan.
The alleged smuggling activities were said to have occurred between late 2020 and early 2021.
After leaving China, Zhang reportedly settled in Nigeria and had been staying in Ogun State using an expired passport.
Operatives of the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, eventually tracked him down and arrested him on September 10, 2026, following intelligence provided by Chinese authorities.
The police subsequently handed Zhang over to Chinese authorities on September 16 to face proceedings in his home country.
The development was disclosed as part of Nigeria’s ongoing cooperation with international law-enforcement agencies in tackling transnational crimes.
Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, said the operation demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to international police cooperation and efforts to prevent the country from becoming a safe haven for fugitives.
The latest case is another example of collaboration between Nigerian and foreign law-enforcement authorities to track down individuals wanted for alleged crimes committed outside Nigeria.
The Nigeria Police Force has continued to work with INTERPOL and other international agencies in responding to requests for the arrest and repatriation of foreign fugitives.
Zhang’s case will now be handled by the relevant authorities in China in accordance with the country’s laws.
