INTERPOL China Update – China and Morocco strengthen security cooperation

China and Morocco have recently taken another significant step toward strengthening their security and diplomatic cooperation. Following a period of growing economic ties and investment flows, both states have now reaffirmed their intention to coordinate more closely on cross-border crime, intelligence sharing and matters expected to feature at INTERPOL’s upcoming 93rd General Assembly in Morocco. This development comes amid increased action by Chinese authorities in pursuing financial crime suspects overseas, and continues a broader trend of enhanced collaboration between China, African partners and INTERPOL.

We have regularly written about INTERPOL’s developments and initiatives to enhance its transnational financial crime fighting capabilities, both at a domestic and international level.

We have also summarised INTERPOL’s activities across China and Africa.

In our most recent articles, we summarised developments from the latest meeting in Singapore and took another look at the INTERPOL Silver Notice. As for emerging trends, we noted how INTERPOL is expanding its presence in Singapore in a wider effort to combat the surge in cybercrime in that region.

In our latest article, we examine a renewed and focused commitment to cooperation between China and Morocco.

What are the details?

In September 2025, China and Morocco signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) establishing a strategic dialogue between their respective foreign ministries.

This follows years of strengthening economic ties between the two countries, with China becoming one of Morocco’s main trading partners and Chinese investment expanding into various sectors, including infrastructure, renewable energy and automotives.

The MoU has now been followed by a high-level meeting between the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China meeting the Morocco’s Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance, Abdellatif Mahhouchi.

The purpose of the meeting was to demonstrate a shared commitment by both countries to enhance cooperation and coordinate efforts to tackle international crime.

Both countries demonstrated an increased willingness to work together on issues that will be discussed at the upcoming 93^rd General Assembly of the International Criminal Police Organisation in Morocco.

What does this mean?

This development serves as a timely warning to individuals and corporations which may have outstanding legal issues connected to either jurisdiction.

Businesses and individuals who have operated in China or Morocco and are concerned about potential liability – perhaps even due to an outstanding civil dispute – should remain vigilant. Any financial dealings are now likely to come under much greater scrutiny than previously anticipated.

Further action from Chinese enforcement agencies

It has recently been reported that following the publication of an INTERPOL Red Notice issued at China’s request, a “Chinese fraud fugitive” was arrested in South Africa and appeared in court.

The report states that the individual was arrested when he allegedly applied for a visa at the United States Embassy, following which he made a first appearance at the Randburg Magistrates’ Court.

It is currently unclear what (if any) arguments will be raised in defence of any extradition request. However, in circumstances where there may be a risk of human rights abuses, political motivation, civil disputes or sanctions violations, INTERPOL’s published guidance provides valuable insight into how such matters are reviewed and challenged.

How Gherson can help

Gherson have extensive experience in providing legal assistance to corporates and individuals who may have, or suspect they may have, outstanding legal issues in China or Morocco.

We have previously written several articles addressing specific concerns in those jurisdictions.

INTERPOL measures

In addition, those who suspect that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red, Blue, Orange, Green, Purple, Special (INTERPOL – United Nations Security Council) or Yellow Notice, should take heed.

Gherson Solicitors continue to receive requests for expert advice and assistance from those who believe they may have outstanding financial issues which may involve INTERPOL. This advice tackles:

1. How best to approach a possible INTERPOL notice;
2. Preparing for potential criminal proceedings / an extradition request;
3. Preparing for a situation where a civil matter or commercial dispute could be used to initiate bogus criminal proceedings; and
4. Even exploring the possibility of instigating civil litigation proceedings to recover any misappropriated assets.

Gherson have previously written a series of blogs designed to assist those who may suspect that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures (including a Blue and a Red Notice):

• What is INTERPOL’s Silver Notice?
• INTERPOL UPDATE – India charges 8 people in first Interpol Silver Notice Case
• What is an INTERPOL Yellow Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL-United Nations Security Council Special Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Purple Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Green Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Orange Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is the purpose of an INTERPOL Blue Notice, and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Blue Notice?
• INTERPOL and Red Notice Challenges
• How to Remove an INTERPOL Red Notice
• INTERPOL Red Notices and Extradition
• How do I know if I am subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice?

Gherson have over 36 years of experience in assisting with all aspects of INTERPOL, Red Notice challenges and extradition. We have unparalleled expertise in managing asylum and extradition requests in tandem. If you would like to speak to us in respect of any of the issues raised in this blog or about your specific circumstances, do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice.  Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position.  Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog.  For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson.  Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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