French Police launch investigation after Interpol Chief goes missing
What's the story
An investigation has been launched by the French Police after Interpol President Meng Hongwei went missing, suggest reports. Meng's wife notified the Interpol that he was missing after he left for China on September 29. The 64-year-old lives in Lyon, where Interpol is based, with his wife and children. He was elected the Chief in November 2016 and his term will end in 2020.
Position
Meng is a highly-placed Chinese official
Meng, the first Chinese to have been elected to the position, was the former Vice Minister of China's public security. He has also held positions like country Coast Guard's Director and Deputy Head of State Oceanic Administration. He was elected to the position during Interpol's 85th Members' meeting in Indonesia. Interpol is yet to comment on his disappearance.
Appointment
Human Rights bodies had concerns over Meng's appointment
When Meng was elected the Interpol chief, Human Rights bodies thought Beijing would use this position to go after dissidents abroad. Upon taking office, Meng had spoken about working together with all the members to build a stronger platform for global police cooperation. He had also called for better coordination among regional and global forces to build a safer world.
Do you know?
Interpol is second largest International organization after UN
Founded in 1914, Interpol has 190 members and is headquartered in France. It is the second largest organization after the United Nations. Upon Meng's elevation, a Chinese spokesperson said the country valued the role of Interpol and is willing to shoulder more responsibility.