- The Crime: Chen is accused of creating fake VAT invoices worth over a billion Naira.
- The Escape: He fled China, hopping through Hong Kong and Burkina Faso before illegally entering Nigeria.
- The Arrest: Nigerian and Chinese authorities worked together to nab him in Lagos.
- The Message: Nigeria is not a safe place for criminals to hide!
How a Chinese Tax Fugitive Was Nabbed in Lagos
Chen Gaochong, a Chinese national, found out the hard way that you can run, but you can’t hide—especially not from international law enforcement. Wanted for a massive tax fraud scheme, Chen was arrested in Lagos after a coordinated effort between the Nigeria Police Force and their counterparts in China.
The Tax Fraud Scheme: Millions in Fake Invoices
According to reports, Chen is accused of issuing fake Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices totaling a staggering 4.97 million renminbi (about N1,057,561,330). Chinese investigators say that between May and August 2017, he used the names of two companies—Linhai Guangyong and Linhai Beilaisi—to create 45 bogus VAT invoices for Xuzhou Wanfeng Plastic Industry Company.
Tax fraud is a serious offense in China, often carrying hefty penalties, including significant jail time and substantial fines. China has been cracking down on tax evasion to ensure fair tax collection and maintain economic stability. You don’t want to mess with China when it comes to taxes!
The Great Escape: From China to Nigeria
Faced with the music, Chen decided to make a run for it. He left mainland China through Shenzhen Bay in November 2019, making his way to Hong Kong and then Burkina Faso before sneaking into Nigeria in 2021. Talk about a journey!
He even tried to cover his tracks by not renewing his international passport. Sneaky, right? But it wasn’t enough to outsmart the authorities.
The Arrest and Deportation: Justice Served
After a formal request from the Chinese government, the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja launched covert operations, locating and detaining Chen in Lagos on June 24. On July 3, he was officially handed over to Chinese law enforcement for prosecution.
Nigeria’s Message: No Safe Haven for Criminals
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun made it clear that Nigeria will not be a safe place for fugitives. This operation highlights the importance of international cooperation in fighting cross-border crime. Nigeria is serious about working with other countries to bring criminals to justice.
What This Means for International Law Enforcement
This successful operation shows how well international law enforcement agencies can work together. It sends a strong message to criminals: no matter where you run, they will find you. The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to working with international bodies to uphold legal obligations.