The Ministry of Public Security said Monday that Philippine law enforcement authorities have handed over a suspect linked to multiple kidnapping and homicide cases involving Chinese nationals.

The suspect, Shi Chunfang, was transferred to Chinese custody on Dec 22 and escorted back to China by police officers from Fujian province, the ministry said.

According to the ministry, a criminal gang led by Shi has in recent years carried out a series of serious crimes in the Philippines, including kidnapping and murder targeting Chinese citizens.

Chinese and Philippine law enforcement agencies have strengthened policing cooperation to advance investigations into the cases, leading to Shi's arrest, the ministry said.

An official from the Ministry of Public Security said Chinese police will continue to deepen international law enforcement cooperation and intensify efforts to crack down on transnational crimes, including kidnapping for ransom, human trafficking, online gambling and telecom fraud.

The official said authorities are determined to bring all criminals to justice and safeguard the personal safety and legitimate rights of Chinese citizens overseas.