By Aabigayle McIntosh

The Attorney defending the man behind the demise of the XPZ Supermarket remains resolute in his quest in hopes that Immigration authorities will be amenable to allow him to remain in Antigua and Barbuda.

Tianzhao Alex Feng pleaded guilty to arson in February after burning down the XPZ store on Sir Sydney Walling Highway in June 2021.

Earlier this month news emerged he had been released and was being held by immigration authorities pending his forced return to China. There are fears his life will be at risk if he returns home.

Robinson said he will be meeting with Feng sometime this week to check on his status. He also intends to meet with the Acting Chief Immigration Officer and the immigration minister in this regard.

“I believe if I make proper representation to the minister with responsibility for immigration and the immigration authorities themselves. I believe it is a matter they would give consideration to.

“If ultimately nothing is done, I may resort to the court, however, I think it is a matter that I could reach out to the minister. I am also mindful of the relationship with China and Antigua and Barbuda and one would not want to necessarily break that relationship and the minister may be cognizant of that as well,” Robinson said.

He is also hoping to engage with a local non-profit organization that may be able to assist in having Feng remain in Antigua and become a productive person notwithstanding his medical state.

The matter surrounding Feng’s faith was also discussed in Cabinet last week, but nothing was mentioned as to the government’s position.