Chinese-Australian CCTV Famous Anchor Detained in China for Two Weeks... 'Uproar'

On the 1st, Cheng Lei (49), a Chinese-Australian and a famous anchor of CGTN, the English-language channel of China's state-run CCTV, was detained by the Chinese government, causing a stir. Photo by Facebook.

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Bong-ju] Cheong Lei (49), a Chinese-Australian and a famous anchor of the Chinese state-run CCTV English broadcast channel CGTN, has been detained by the Chinese government, causing a stir.

According to AP News and others, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne issued a statement on the 31st of last month (local time) announcing that she was notified on the 14th of this month that Cheong had been detained by the Chinese government.

Minister Payne said that officials had a video meeting with Cheong, who is in detention facilities, on the 27th of last month but did not disclose why Cheong was detained. She dismissed further explanation, saying, "Due to government confidentiality obligations, no additional details can be provided. She also stated that support for Cheong and her family will continue."

ABC News reported that Cheong has not been charged and is under house arrest at a specific location. It explained that in China, suspects can be detained and interrogated for up to six months without lawyer access even before official arrest.

Cheong's family said in a statement through ABC News, "We are well aware of Cheong Lei's situation based on advice from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). We will monitor whether due legal process is followed in China and hope a satisfactory conclusion will be reached in due course."

Cheong's Twitter has not posted any new content since the last post on the 12th of last month. His profile and videos have been removed from the CGTN website.

Meanwhile, Australia and China are in conflict over the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Australia demands an international investigation, holding China responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, while China has imposed high tariffs or anti-dumping investigations on various Australian products such as beef and wine. China has also advised its citizens to refrain from studying and traveling in Australia.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.