Pastor Cao Sanqiang told RFA that he remains under an unexplained exit restriction more than two years after completing a seven-year prison term. He says he was diagnosed with late-stage prostate cancer in April and hopes to reunite with family in the United States. ChinaAid and USCIRF provide additional public documentation of his health and post-release restrictions.
Why It Matters
The case raises questions about indefinite post-sentence travel restrictions, religious freedom, family unity and humanitarian treatment.
Free China Editorial / Analysis
Completing a prison sentence should end the punishment. If authorities continue restricting a former prisoner’s movement, the legal basis and duration should be transparent and reviewable. Cao should be allowed to reunite with his family and seek care abroad if medically able to travel.
Sources
- Radio Free Asia, August 31, 2026, direct interview/report.
- ChinaAid, April 24, 2026.
- USCIRF FoRB Victims Database, John Cao.
- UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention Opinion No. 35/2019.
Free China 
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