Yang Tengbo's Background

Born in 1974 in China, Yang, also known as Chris Yang, arrived in the UK in 2002 for academic pursuits. After studying in London, he completed a master’s degree in public administration at the University of York. In 2005, he founded the consultancy firm Hampton Group International and has held directorships in several UK companies.

UK Authorities' Actions

Yang's troubles began on November 6, 2021, when he was stopped at the UK border amid undisclosed concerns. He surrendered his electronic devices during this encounter, which later formed part of the evidence against him. Authorities believed he had ties to the United Front Work Department (UFWD), an arm of the Chinese government involved in cultural influence operations abroad. These interactions have raised alarms given the UFWD’s alleged role in various instances of Chinese interference in Western nations.

The Connection to Prince Andrew

A significant piece of evidence pointed to Yang's alleged interactions with Prince Andrew. Authorities found correspondence from Dominic Hampshire, an advisor to Prince Andrew, indicating that Yang was authorized to represent the prince in engagements with potential investors in China. This raised concerns about the possibility of Yang using these connections for political advantage on behalf of Beijing.

Yang's Defense

In court, Yang staunchly defended himself against the intelligence accusations, asserting he has no political connections in China, has never been a member of the Chinese Communist Party, and denies engaging in any UFWD activities. He framed the allegations as symptomatic of a broader anti-China sentiment in the UK, suggesting that his presence was welcomed during periods of favorable relations but cast aside during spikes in tension.