Lai Changxing

Wong Tai Shing, 46, allegedly a close associate of refugee claimant, Lai Changxing, who lives in Burnaby with his family is facing extradition to Hong Kong after the Australian Federal Court ended his two-year bid for freedom this month.

The Chinese authorities have alleged that Lai was the mastermind behind a massive smuggling case in southern Xiamen city, Fujian province, which involved goods worth billions of dollars. Eight people have been executed for their roles in the racket.

Wong is wanted in China on charges of smuggling and bribery. It was unclear whether he would be handed over to the mainland authorities upon his return to Hong Kong, the paper said.

Wong, a former Customs official in Xiamen, fled to Hong Kong in 1995 before securing entry to Australia in August 1999.

Citing Australian Federal Court documents, a local newspaper said Wong worked for Lai's company in 1994.

China last year brought back 596 fugitive corrupt officials from overseas.

It is now desperately trying to get Canada to send home alleged smuggling kingpin Lai Changxing who is seeking refugee status in Vancouver.

Lai fled to Vancouver with his wife and three children in 1999, after China launched a campaign against corruption and smuggling.

China has promised not to give Lai the death penalty should he be returned.