Ask Onix
Updated 29 January 2026 - Chinese investigators arrive in Brisbane to assist local authorities.
Beijing sends investigators to Brisbane
China has sent a working group to Australia to help investigate the alleged dousing of a nine-month-old baby with boiling coffee in Brisbane last year. The attack left the infant with severe burns to his face and limbs.
Chinese ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian announced the move on Thursday, stating that Beijing is committed to addressing the case and taking necessary actions. The team will collaborate with Australian officials to reconstruct the incident and explore further cooperation.
Suspect remains in China amid extradition hurdles
A 33-year-old man, identified as the suspect, fled Australia before police could apprehend him. He is currently in China, which has no extradition treaty with Australia. Queensland Police and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed they are hosting the Chinese delegation, acknowledging the challenges posed by the suspect's location.
In a joint statement, the police forces noted that China has extraterritorial jurisdiction to prosecute its citizens for crimes committed abroad. An arrest warrant has been issued in Australia for acts intending to cause grievous bodily harm, a charge that carries a potential life sentence.
Details of the attack
The incident occurred in August 2024 while the baby's family was picnicking in a park in Brisbane's southern suburbs. The suspect allegedly poured a Thermos of hot coffee over the infant, causing critical injuries. The boy underwent multiple skin graft surgeries in the weeks following the attack.
Police described the suspect as an itinerant worker who had traveled to Australia several times between 2019 and 2024, with addresses in Victoria and New South Wales.
Outrage and support for the victim
The attack sparked widespread outrage across Australia due to its brutality and the victim's young age. Three months after the incident, the baby's parents provided an update, stating that while scarring remained on his chin and shoulder, his overall recovery was progressing well.
An online fundraiser launched to cover the boy's medical expenses raised over $230,000 (AUD), equivalent to approximately $161,000 USD or £117,000 GBP.
Next steps in the investigation
The Chinese delegation's arrival marks a significant step in the cross-border effort to hold the suspect accountable. While Australia cannot extradite the man, the collaboration aims to gather evidence and explore legal avenues under Chinese law.
"We are serious in addressing this concern, and we're serious in taking the necessary actions."
Xiao Qian, Chinese Ambassador to Australia
