Chinese Fugitive Li Chuanliang Hunted by Beijing in Texas

UPDATE: Former Chinese official Li Chuanliang has become a target of Beijing’s relentless pursuit, even while seeking asylum in Texas. Li, who exposed corruption within the Chinese government, is now living in fear as Chinese authorities utilize advanced surveillance technology to track him and his family worldwide.

Just days after receiving an urgent warning to flee South Korea, where he was recuperating from cancer, Li arrived in the U.S. on a tourist visa. He quickly applied for asylum, fearing for his safety after Chinese operatives reportedly began following him. The situation escalated when facial recognition software was employed to locate Li’s family members and associates, leading to the detention of over 40 individuals, including his pregnant daughter.

“We are being hunted,” Li stated. “They track you 24 hours a day… your relatives, your friends, where you live. It’s absolutely terrifying.”

Li, who has been accused by the Chinese government of corruption totaling around $435 million, denies the charges and claims he is being persecuted for his criticism of the regime. Investigations reveal that the technology used to monitor Li originates from major U.S. firms like IBM, Oracle, and Microsoft, raising serious concerns about the complicity of American companies in aiding Beijing’s global surveillance efforts.

The Chinese government has launched operations known as “Fox Hunt” and “Sky Net” to capture former officials and dissidents outside its borders. These initiatives have reportedly led to the return of over 14,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, a move condemned by U.S. officials as an affront to national sovereignty.

Li’s unsettling experience reflects a broader pattern of intimidation, where the Chinese government uses surveillance technology to control and silence dissent. “They’re actively pursuing those who fled China as a way to demonstrate power,” explained Yaqiu Wang, a fellow at the University of Chicago. “The chilling effect is enormously effective.”

As Li settles into the Mayflower Church community in Midland, Texas, he continues to share his story on platforms like YouTube, drawing attention to the plight of those targeted by the Chinese government. With the future of his asylum request uncertain, the risks remain high. The Trump administration has paused all asylum applications, leaving Li vulnerable to being sent back to China, where he could face life imprisonment.

“Why am I speaking up? Today, it’s me. Tomorrow, it might be you,” Li said, urging others to recognize the dangers posed by authoritarian regimes.

This developing situation underscores the growing international concern over China’s use of technology for state control and the implications for human rights. As the Chinese government intensifies its hunt for Li, the world watches closely, questioning the role of U.S. technology firms in enabling this global crackdown.

Authorities in China have yet to respond to requests for comments on Li’s allegations. However, the Chinese foreign ministry has insisted that Beijing respects the lawful rights of all suspects and calls for foreign nations to cease providing refuge to corrupt officials.

The urgency of Li’s situation highlights the intersection of technology, human rights, and global politics, making it a focal point for discussions on international relations and the responsibilities of tech companies. As this story unfolds, Li’s courage in speaking out against oppression resonates with many, igniting a call to action for those who value freedom and justice.