Chinese customs detain two Japanese nationals in Dalian in May

2026-06-24

Two Japanese nationals were detained in China in May

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said at a news conference on the 24th that two Japanese nationals had each been detained by Chinese customs authorities in May. The two were detained in Dalian, Liaoning province, and their health condition is not a concern, he said.

Detention linked to suspected smuggling offence

According to Kihara, Japan was informed by the Chinese side that the two were suspected of violating laws on smuggling state-prohibited import and export goods. As the case is under investigation, he said details would not be disclosed from the standpoint of protecting privacy.

Japan to keep responding to protect nationals

Kihara said: 'While staying in contact with the individuals concerned and related parties, we will continue to respond appropriately from the standpoint of protecting Japanese nationals.'

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