FBI Opens New Zealand Office to ‘Counter the CCP,’ Says Patel

FBI Director Kash Patel met with security ministers and agencies and law enforcement heads during a brief visit to Wellington.
FBI Opens New Zealand Office to ‘Counter the CCP,’ Says Patel
FBI Director Kash Patel officially opens the new FBI Legat office in Wellington, New Zealand. Photo by Ola Thorsen / US Embassy Wellington
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has opened a new office in Wellington, New Zealand, expanding its presence in the Pacific to address growing security threats—including cybercrime, espionage, and influence from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

FBI Director Kash Patel, who made a discreet visit to Wellington, said in a video released by the U.S. Embassy that countering the CCP in the Pacific region, is “one of the most important global issues” facing the two countries.

Rex Widerstrom
Rex Widerstrom
Author
Rex Widerstrom is a New Zealand-based reporter with over 40 years of experience in media, including radio and print. He is currently a presenter for Hutt Radio.