The Chinese ambassador has revealed that Chinese investigators will travel to Brisbane to work with local authorities following a coffee attack on a baby more than a year ago.
Then nine-month-old baby Luka was left with severe burns to his chest, neck and face after a man allegedly poured a thermos of scalding coffee on him in August 2024.
It is understood that the infant underwent at least eight surgeries for severe burns, including synthetic skin grafts, skin needling and laser treatment.
Last year, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) revealed the alleged attacker is "known to be in China", having fled overseas days after the incident in Brisbane's Hanlon Park.
On Wednesday, Chinese ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian said China was "serious" about taking necessary action and was working with Australian authorities.
"There's going to be a working group from China coming to Australia," he told reporters at the Chinese Embassy in Canberra on Wednesday.
"Going to Brisbane to investigate, to talk with Australian colleagues to see what exactly happened, how it happened, and see what both sides can work together as a follow-up."
The foreign national is currently protected from extradition under Chinese law.
However, Baby Luka's family continues to advocate for justice.
In a statement provided to SBS News, Queensland Police said that alongside the AFP, authorities knew the alleged offender was in China and they were "working tirelessly" with international partners.
"The AFP is working jointly with Chinese authorities on appropriate options to take this matter forward," the statement said.
"The AFP values the ongoing cooperation from Chinese authorities and their shared commitment to pursue all avenues for justice in light of the alleged offender’s location.
"China has extraterritorial jurisdiction to prosecute its citizens for conduct which occurs outside China."
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