The family of missing Chinese visiting scholar, Zhang Yingying, has called for justice and harsh punishment. 

Zhang Yingying, 26, has been missing in the US since June 9.

Brendt Christensen, 28, was arrested for kidnapping Zhang on June 30. Federal authorities believe Zhang is no longer alive. 

Zhang’s family members and Hong Lei, Chinese Consul General in Chicago, shared their thoughts with CGTN. 

The family wants the authorities in the US to pay attention to the two "most urgent issues," said Hou Xiaolin, Zhang’s boyfriend of nearly eight years. 

Firstly, he said Zhang should be found and brought back. Secondly, the criminal should be brought to justice quickly, he added. 

Hong Lei said the Chinese government will urge the US Justice Department to pay high attention to the case. 

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