A routine worker registration exercise has led to the arrest of a 58-year-old fugitive who had been on the run for 29 years, police in Qiyang, Hunan Province, said.
The suspect, identified only as Wang, was discovered on July 14 during a police operation to update the country’s “One Standard, Three Records” database, which tracks addresses, residents, properties and business premises.
Police said Wang was working at a remote poultry farm in Qiliping Village, Baishui Town, an isolated area surrounded by hills with poor mobile phone reception and limited public access.
According to investigators, Wang deliberately chose to hide in remote locations over the past three decades. He allegedly avoided using an identity card, renting accommodation, opening bank accounts, taking public transport or contacting his family in an effort to evade capture.
While conducting worker registration at the farm, auxiliary officer Liu Kaibin noticed Wang behaving nervously and giving inconsistent answers.
Wang claimed his employer had taken his identity card to arrange insurance, but he was unable to clearly state his name or hometown. He also refused to face the camera for a registration photo, raising further suspicion.
Believing the man’s behaviour was unusual, Liu immediately reported the matter to officers at the Baishui Police Station.
Deputy police station chief Liu Qiongfeng and his team arrived shortly afterwards to verify Wang’s identity. During questioning, Wang allegedly attempted to flee by claiming he needed to relieve himself, but officers stopped and detained him.
On the way back to the police station, officers continued persuading Wang to cooperate. After remaining silent for some time, he finally admitted his identity and agreed to surrender.
Police later confirmed that Wang, a native of Gengma, Yunnan Province, fled in 1997 after allegedly embezzling company funds. He was officially listed as a wanted fugitive in September 1999.
Investigators said Wang was 29 years old when he went into hiding and was finally arrested at the age of 58. Since 2021, he had been working and living at the remote poultry farm, rarely leaving the premises.
“I wanted to surrender, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. My family is gone, my wife and children are no longer with me. I didn’t dare go home or go anywhere. I’ve spent my whole life on the run, unable to do anything. I regret it deeply,” Wang reportedly told police through tears.
