China has confirmed the detention of a US citizen on suspicion of espionage, accusing him of activities that allegedly endangered the country's national security.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Friday that Min Zin, founder of the Institute for Strategy and Policy–Myanmar, has been placed under criminal measures due to suspected spying activities.
The announcement follows reports that Min Zin disappeared last week while in Kunming, a city in southwestern China.
Chinese authorities did not specify the nature of the allegations or the criminal measures imposed, though the term generally indicates restrictions on personal freedom during an investigation.
Lin said China had notified the US Consulate General in Guangzhou about the case and stressed that the detainee's legal rights were being fully protected.
The detention adds to growing scrutiny of foreign nationals in China amid ongoing tensions between Beijing and Washington.
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