China steps up crackdown on border-related crimes
China's National Immigration Administration reported on its law enforcement activities in the third quarter of 2026, highlighting intensified efforts against illegal border crossings, drug trafficking and smuggling.
According to the administration, immigration authorities nationwide investigated 4,432 cases involving crimes that disrupted national border control during the period. More than 12,000 suspects were arrested, 100 major criminal syndicates were dismantled, and 66 major cases were placed under focused investigation.
Authorities also intensified action against crimes involving firearms and explosives, as well as drug trafficking and smuggling at ports and in border regions.
During the third quarter, law enforcement agencies solved 110 drug-related cases, arrested 123 suspects and seized 1.88 tons of illegal drugs.
National Immigration Administration spokeswoman Lyu Ning said authorities focused on criminal patterns specific to different regions and recurring forms of border-related crime.
Particular attention was given to groups organizing the illegal departure of Chinese citizens for involvement in telecom and online fraud abroad, as well as schemes arranging the illegal entry of foreign nationals into China for employment.
Authorities also launched a new campaign to apprehend fugitives, stepped up targeted operations in key border regions and against illegal immigration agencies.
China further strengthened cross-border law enforcement cooperation with relevant countries and regions in an effort to maintain order in international travel and border management.
According to CCTV+, Chinese immigration authorities plan to continue targeting organized illegal border-crossing schemes, drug trafficking and smuggling.
