Australia confirms raid on China media, says acted on evidence

Australia confirmed a raid on four journalists for China’s state media and said security agencies were acting on evidence related to a foreign interference investigation in the June incident.

The raid was revealed by China’s foreign ministry this week, after two Australian journalists left China following questioning by Chinese police. The two sought diplomatic protection after the authorities turned up at their homes in Beijing and Shanghai. 

Relations between Australia and top trading partner China have deteriorated since Canberra called for an investigation into the origins of the coronavirus, angering Beijing. China has responded with trade reprisals on products including wine, while Australia has toughened national security tests for foreign investment.

Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said Australian security agencies had acted according to the law.

“We appropriately respond in relation to any foreign interference concerns that are raised in Australia,” he told the ABC News Breakfast television programme, when asked about the incident.

“We do it purely in relation to the evidence,” he added.