The legal representative of two companies allegedly involved in surrogacy in Qingdao, Shandong province, has been arrested by the public security authorities, with the case currently under investigation, said the Qingdao Municipal Health Commission on Wednesday.

Two doctors have been barred from practicing medicine for life.

In August, following the online allegations of surrogacy at Qingdao Meike Biotechnology Co Ltd and Qingdao Chunyun IVF Consultation Co Ltd, authorities launched a joint investigation team comprising the Municipal Health Commission, Public Security Bureau, and Market Supervision Bureau.

Subsequent investigations revealed that Cong, the legal representative of both companies, is reportedly involved in the illicit implementation of human assisted reproductive technologies and is suspected of criminal activities.

Additionally, five individuals are found to have varying degrees of involvement in the illicit activities related to human assisted reproductive technologies.

Punitive measures have been imposed based on the seriousness of the offenses, including issuing warnings, confiscating illegal gains, revoking medical licenses, imposing administrative penalties prohibiting them from practicing in medical and health services for life.