China's spies surge across the world, as more get caught
Beijing is increasing its intelligence operations globally. Recent arrests in the UK involve individuals running shadow policing for China. At least 30 agents have been identified in Europe over two years.
What changed
Specific arrests of a former UK official and a retired Hong Kong officer have been confirmed alongside data on European operations.
Live updates
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Chinese Espionage Networks Expand in Europe and UK
confidence 90%Beijing is increasing its intelligence operations globally. Recent arrests in the UK involve individuals running shadow policing for China. At least 30 agents have been identified in Europe over two years.
What's confirmed:
- A former British immigration official and a retired Hong Kong police officer were jailed for spying for China.
- Bill Yuen Chung Biu and Peter Wai Chi Leung were charged with assisting the Hong Kong intelligence service.
Still unconfirmed:
- At least 30 agents operating for Beijing have been uncovered in the European area over the last two years.
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China's Global Espionage Network Expands Amid Rising Arrests
confidence 90%Beijing is aggressively expanding its global spy network to gain political and economic advantages. Operatives are increasingly using online job platforms and civilian identities for recruitment. While the network is surging, a higher number of agents are being apprehended.
What's confirmed:
- China is expanding its global espionage network.
- A larger number of Chinese operatives are being arrested.
- Chinese spies are using online job platforms to recruit individuals with access to sensitive information.
- Beijing is deploying a vast espionage machine to seek advantage over the United States and the West.
Still unconfirmed:
- China has leadership dreams for AI and is engaging with Africa's quest for digital autonomy.