China secures first extradition from South Africa

China has successfully extradited a suspect surnamed Chen, from South Africa over allegations of illegal business operations, marking the first extradition under the treaty between the two nations since it took effect in November 2004, the Ministry of Public Security announced on Monday.

Chen is accused of conducting unauthorized currency exchanges between the Chinese yuan and the South African rand, involving more than 49 million yuan. The people's procuratorate of Chongming District in Shanghai approved Chen's arrest in June 2020 on charges of illegal business operations. South African authorities apprehended Chen in July 2025, following which China submitted a formal extradition request. In December, a South African court approved the extradition.

An official from the ministry stated that this successful extradition underscores the commitment of China and South Africa to combat cross-border crime and marks a significant step in enhancing bilateral judicial and law enforcement cooperation.