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Governor Greg Abbott has issued an executive order aimed at protecting Texans from harassment and coercion by the People's Republic of China (PRC) or the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The order directs the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to target and arrest individuals involved in CCP influence operations, such as "Operation Fox Hunt," which seeks to forcibly return dissidents to China.
"The Chinese Communist Party has engaged in a worldwide harassment campaign against Chinese dissidents in attempts to forcibly return them to China," stated Governor Abbott. He emphasized that Texas will not tolerate harassment or coercion of its residents of Chinese descent by the CCP. "Ensuring the safety, welfare, and well-being of Texans is a top priority," he added. The Governor instructed DPS to identify and bring criminal charges against those harassing Texans on behalf of this foreign adversary.
Following the Governor's directive, DPS will begin identifying and charging individuals suspected of exploiting dissidents for any foreign government. They will collaborate with local and federal law enforcement through the Texas Fusion Center to assess incidents where foreign governments attempt to intimidate Texans beyond their borders. Additionally, DPS will document individuals planning or carrying out acts of repression and provide policy recommendations by January 15, 2025, on countering such threats.
A hotline will be introduced, and updates made to the iWatch Texas Community Reporting System, allowing Texans to report suspected acts of oppression or coercion by PRC or CCP actors. Reports can be made anonymously at iwatchtx.org, via the iWatchTexas mobile app, or by calling 844-643-2251.