China detains 52 Singaporeans over alleged pyramid schemes
Chinese authorities detained 52 Singapore citizens in Guangxi following a law enforcement operation targeting activities linked to pyramid schemes and other offences. Singapore’s Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Sim Ann said this on Friday.
Consular assistance
According to Daily Maverick, citing Reuters, Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and police are in contact with Chinese authorities to obtain further information about these cases.
According to Sim Ann, the Singapore government does not intervene in judicial proceedings and investigations in other countries, but provides consular assistance to all 52 detainees. The Singapore Embassy in Beijing and the Consulate-General in Guangzhou visited the detainees three times to check on their condition and provide consular assistance.
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During these visits, diplomats, among other things, conveyed the detainees’ requests and messages from their families, as well as assisted with administrative matters.
Investment warning
Sim Ann also warned Singaporeans to be cautious when considering business or investment schemes both abroad and in the country. She advised paying particular attention to schemes involving the recruitment of new participants, requirements for substantial initial contributions, or promises of exceptionally high returns.
The minister did not provide further details about the alleged offences. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that Chinese police are investigating criminal cases involving foreign nationals in China in accordance with the law and safeguarding the lawful rights and interests of the persons concerned.
