Disappearance and Detention of Meng Hongwei

On October 4, 2018, Meng Hongwei, the then-President of Interpol, was reported missing after undertaking a trip from France to China. Meng’s disappearance garnered international attention when his wife, Grace Meng, reported that she had lost contact with him. Since Meng Hongwei held a prominent position within Interpol, his sudden absence prompted significant concern and speculation regarding his whereabouts.

Background

Meng Hongwei was a seasoned Chinese politician and public security official, having held various key positions within China’s government. His election as Interpol President in November 2016 marked the first time a Chinese official had led the organization. His presidency was part of China’s broader efforts to increase influence within international organizations.

The Investigation

Shortly after Meng was reported missing, it was revealed that he was detained by Chinese authorities. The Ministry of Public Security in China clarified that Meng was under investigation for alleged corruption and other violations of law. The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, the Communist Party’s internal watchdog, was purportedly conducting this investigation as part of the Chinese government’s extensive anti-corruption campaign, led by President Xi Jinping.

International Reaction

Meng’s disappearance and subsequent detention shocked the international community, raising concerns about jurisdictional and procedural issues involving international law enforcement officials. Interpol requested clarification from Chinese authorities regarding Meng’s status and the reasons for his detention.

Aftermath

Following his detention, Meng resigned from his position at Interpol, and the organization accepted his resignation, appointing South Korean official Kim Jong-yang as the acting President. This incident underscored ongoing concerns about transparency and governance within international institutions and highlighted the complexities of international diplomacy and the sovereignty of nations in legal matters.

Meng’s detention was part of a broader pattern of high-profile Chinese nationals being targeted in anti-corruption measures, reflecting the rigorous enforcement and reach of Chinese domestic policies extending beyond its borders.