Australia probes spy plot amid claims of Beijing’s political meddling in Taiwan, Hong Kong
- Explosive accusations about an alleged attempt to infiltrate parliament follow the defection of self-confessed spy Wang Liqiang
- Though retired Taiwanese intelligence official pours cold water on Wang’s claims, analysts say allegations will add to wariness about China’s intentions
In a rare public statement, the head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) said on Sunday that his agency was “actively investigating” allegations that a Chinese spy ring attempted to cultivate a Melbourne-based luxury car dealer, Nick Zhao, as a candidate for the federal parliament.
Zhao, 32, was found dead in unexplained circumstances in March after reportedly informing ASIO of an alleged attempt by another Melbourne businessman, Brian Chen, to recruit him as a puppet candidate for Beijing in the Melbourne seat of Chisholm. Chen has denied knowing Zhao or working as a Chinese intelligence operative.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Monday described the allegations as “deeply disturbing and troubling” while also cautioning against “leaping to conclusions” about the case.
“I can assure Australians that under our government, the resources have never been stronger, the laws have never been tougher, and the government has never been more determined to keep Australians free and safe from foreign interference,” Morrison said.
The explosive claims, made by associates of Zhao as well as multiple Western security sources, according to Nine media group, come as a 27-year-old mainland Chinese man is seeking asylum in Australia after making a raft of separate allegations of political meddling by Beijing.
