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China Executes French Citizen for Drug Trafficking Amid Outcry

4/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

China executed Chan Thao Phoumy, a 62-year-old French citizen, on April 5, 2026, in Guangzhou for drug trafficking.
The French Foreign Ministry confirmed the execution and voiced consternation over defense access at the final hearing.
Phoumy spent over 15 years on death row after a 2010 sentencing, despite clemency appeals.
France abolished the death penalty in 1981 and continues to advocate for global abolition.

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Story summary

China executed Chan Thao Phoumy, a 62-year-old French citizen, on April 5, 2026, in Guangzhou for drug trafficking.
The French Foreign Ministry confirmed the execution and voiced consternation over defense access at the final hearing.
Phoumy spent over 15 years on death row after a 2010 sentencing, despite clemency appeals.
France abolished the death penalty in 1981 and continues to advocate for global abolition.