China threatens to detain US nationals after Trump admin's prosecution of Chinese scholars

China has warned United States that it will start detaining US nationals in response to Justice Department's prosecution of Chinese military-affiliated scholars. As per reports, Chinese officials have issued similar warnings to United States multiple times through various channels including US embassy in Beijing.

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China warns US of retaliation

John Demers, head of US Justice Department's national security division has stated that only when China adheres to rule of law and stops detaining foreign citizens can it hope to be seen as ‘one of world's leading nations’. Demers also said, "We are aware that Chinese government has, in or instances, detained American, Canadian and or individuals without a legal basis to retaliate against lawful prosecutions and to exert pressure on ir governments, with a callous disregard of individuals involved".

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As per reports, fresh warnings from China comes after US began detaining Chinese scholars in United States. US Justice Department has claimed that arrested scholars had tried to hide ir active duty statuses with People's Liberation Army (PLA) from US authorities to justify detention. One of Chinese military scientists, Tang Juan, that was questioned by FBI had taken up residence at Chinese consulate following her interrogation, as per reports. She was arrested in July after she left consulate grounds.

In addition to Juan, four or scholars are also reported to have been charged with ‘Visa fraud’ for having ties to Chinese military and have pled t guilty; two are expected to face trial in vember.

Trump administration, amidst heightened tensions with China, has also intensified its attacks against Chinese Institutes. US authorities have urged schools and colleges to rethink ir ties to institutes that bring Chinese langu classes to United States.

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