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A Scottish Government worker who was detained for 'visiting a prostitute' in China has been released.

Simon Cheng Man-kit, who works at the British Embassy in Hong Kong, vanished two weeks ago after crossing into mainland China for a business trip.

He has now been released after being detained for violating mainland Chinese law and "confessed to his illegal acts".

In a statement confirming his release on Facebook , his family wrote: "Thank you for all your concern for Simon, he has returned to Hong Kong safely, and is in the company of Consulate staff and friends.

(Image: Internet Unknown)

"He has no external injury.

"Please let Simon rest, he and his family will not take any form of interview for the moment."

A spokeswoman at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office confirmed the release.

She said: "We welcome the release of Simon Cheng and are delighted that he can be reunited with his family.

"We will continue to provide support to them.

"Simon and his family have requested privacy and we would be grateful if this is respected."

Public security authorities in Shenzhen said Simon was released as scheduled after 15 days of administrative detention.

The Scottish Government trade and investment officer was hired locally and did not have a diplomatic passport.