The Chinese authorities have detained more than 10 Japanese citizens for alleged spying since 2012 as Beijing has tightened controls on foreigners, Japanese government sources were quoted by Kyodo news agency as saying Saturday.

Most recently, Chinese authorities arrested four Japanese nationals in May and June, but all other Japanese people held on suspicion of spying were released after being detained for periods ranging from days to more than one month, the sources said.

The figure highlights that China has been stepping up its watch over foreign organizations and individuals under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, who assumed control of the Communist Party in November 2012.

Sources: MENA