Beijing has alleged Chinese journalists’ homes were raided by Australia’s intelligence services, escalating a diplomatic row that culminated in two Australian reporters fleeing China this week.
The allegations, first reported by Chinese state media on Tuesday, claimed intelligence officers in June interrogated the unnamed reporters for several hours, while seizing computer equipment, mobile phones and documents. The officers told the journalists to keep the raids secret, Chinese reports claim.
“We have provided consular support to Chinese journalists in Australia and made representations with relevant Australian authorities to safeguard legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens,” a Chinese embassy spokesman told the Financial Times on Wednesday.