PARIS, June 20 — French authorities have dismantled nine alleged clandestine Chinese “police stations” operating across the country, in what observers describe as one of Europe’s most significant actions against Beijing’s suspected overseas surveillance and influence networks, according to reports.
French counterintelligence agencies reportedly identified and shut down the facilities, which were allegedly disguised as cultural, community, and business associations, primarily located in and around Paris.
Investigators believe the centres functioned as unofficial extensions of China’s public security system, allegedly monitoring members of the Chinese diaspora, gathering intelligence, and pressuring critics of the Chinese government living abroad.
Authorities have identified three individuals suspected of coordinating the network. Two have reportedly been expelled from France, while judicial proceedings against a third suspect are ongoing. French officials have not released further details about those involved.
Scrutiny of the network intensified after a 2024 incident in which individuals allegedly linked to Chinese intelligence attempted to forcibly return a Chinese dissident, Ling Huazhan, to China. French law enforcement intervened, blocking the operation and prompting a broader investigation into suspected Beijing-linked activities in the country.
China has repeatedly denied allegations that such overseas service centres operate as covert police stations, stating that they are intended to assist citizens abroad with administrative services such as document renewal and consular support.
However, rights groups and investigative organizations have disputed those claims. Groups such as Safeguard Defenders have reported the existence of dozens of alleged Chinese overseas police stations across multiple countries, raising concerns about transnational repression, surveillance of diaspora communities, and efforts to silence dissidents abroad.
France’s move adds to growing international scrutiny of suspected foreign influence operations and is expected to intensify debate in Europe over national security, sovereignty, and protections for diaspora communities.
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