The stations are believed to be among at least 100 operating across the globe in 53 countries, including the UK and the Netherlands

Two men have been arrested in New York for allegedly operating a Chinese “secret police station” in Manhattan’s Chinatown.

The New York City residents both face charges of conspiring to act as agents for China.

China has previously denied operating the stations, calling them “service centres” for nationals in the U.S.

One of the men arrested was closely connected to Chinese law enforcement.

He was enlisted to help China with “repressive activities” in the U.S., including harassing Chinese dissidents.

The top federal prosecutor in Brooklyn says the operation was only two miles from their office.

The stations are believed to be among at least 100 operating across the globe in 53 countries, including the UK and the Netherlands.

The men are expected to appear in federal court and could face 25 years behind bars.