DHAKA: Beijing on Monday dismissed as ‘groundless’ allegations that a Canadian naval engineer is a Chinese spy.

Qing Quentin Huang, 53, was charged at the weekend under Canada’s Security of Information Act with two counts of attempting to communicate classified information to a foreign entity.

He is alleged to have shared details about Canada’s shipbuilding procurement strategy, including patrol ships, frigates, naval auxiliary vessels, science research vessels and ice breakers.

He is being held pending a bail hearing on Wednesday, and could face life in prison if convicted, reports The Straits Times.

BDST: 1822 HRS, DEC 02, 2013