Authorities in Canada are collaborating with Swiss officials regarding the arrest of a Canadian individual in Switzerland on suspicion of spying for China.
The arrest was revealed as part of a joint investigation involving Der Spiegel, Tamedia, and NK News.
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) confirmed that a Canadian citizen is in custody in Switzerland, with consular officials in touch with local authorities. However, due to privacy concerns, no further details were disclosed.
The Swiss Attorney General’s office declined to comment on ongoing espionage-related proceedings, with court documents revealing that the investigation began in March 2023.
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Media sources have identified him as Craig Boljikovac, a North Korea expert and former U.N. official who frequently traveled to China for work.
Reports suggest that the Canadian, in his 50s, is accused of espionage for China in various investigations dating back to 2021.
His professional background includes roles as a senior advisor and lecturer at Tsinghua University School of Environment in Beijing, as well as advising the CEO of GEM Co. Ltd. in China.
He previously worked at the U.N. Institute of Training and Research and served as an adviser for the World Wildlife Fund in Canada.
Reuters contributed to this report.
