China confirms detention of U.S. citizen on espionage suspicion

China confirms detention of U.S. citizen on espionage suspicion
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian attends a press conference in Beijing, China, 10 April 2025
Reuters

China's foreign ministry has confirmed the detention of a U.S. citizen identified as U Min Zin, saying he is suspected of espionage and of endangering national security.

Speaking at a regular news conference on Friday, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Chinese authorities had informed the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou about the detention.

Reported disappearance

The confirmation follows a report by The New York Times that U Min Zin went missing last week in Kunming, a city in south-west China.

Lin did not provide further details about the allegations but said the case was being handled in accordance with Chinese law.

Growing security concerns

China has, in recent years, tightened its national security legislation and increased scrutiny of foreign nationals, particularly in cases involving suspected espionage.

Authorities frequently cite national security concerns as grounds for detention, although such cases often prompt concerns from foreign governments and human rights groups over transparency and due process.

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