Chinese warned of target of rising violence in Kyrgyzstan

Chinese nationals living in Kyrgyzstan are facing a rise in violent attacks, theft and extortion, the Chinese embassy here warned late Friday, Xinhua reported.

A surge in violence in areas in Bishkek with a high density of Chinese businesses has been reported, resulting in economic losses and disruption to local Chinese people's lives and businesses, the embassy said in a statement.

Several Chinese were injured in burglaries and road robberies in which they were attacked by sticks and guns, said the statement. Criminals also disguised themselves as police to extort money from victims.

The embassy has urged Kyrgyz foreign and interior ministries and police authorities to make a greater effort to protect the rights and interests of Chinese living in the country.

Crimes usually rise in fall and winter in Kyrgyzstan, said the Chinese embassy. It called on the Chinese in or planning a trip to the country to take precautions against possible attacks.