By knchile 
A Chinese couple recently arrested for allegedly smuggling nearly 30 kilograms of gold and $200,000 in undeclared cash into Zambia has appeared in court, facing serious charges. Zhao Changsong, 58, and his wife Zhao Yanjing, 47, both from Harare, Zimbabwe, are at the center of a high-profile case that has caught the attention of many here in Zambia.
The couple is facing five charges, including fraudulent dealing in minerals, smuggling, using a vehicle for smuggling, and possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime. According to the allegations, on August 12, the couple transported and concealed 29.925 kilograms of gold from an unknown source into Zambia, with the intent to defraud the authorities and the people of this country.
It’s further alleged that they smuggled the gold into Zambia, hidden within a Toyota Prado, registration number AGP 8998, without declaring it at the border. In addition to the gold, they are accused of bringing $200,000 into the country without following the legal requirement to declare such a large sum of money.
The contraband was cleverly hidden in the vehicle’s door panels, highlighting the lengths to which some individuals will go to engage in illegal activities.
The couple appeared before Lusaka Chief Resident Magistrate Davies Chibwili, where the charges were formally read. During the proceedings, Zhao Yanjing requested to be excused due to a persistent health issue. The case has been adjourned to Wednesday, August 28, for a possible plea.
Defense lawyer Hudson Talanti has applied for bail, arguing that the charges are bailable and that Zhao Yanjing requires medical attention. However, the state prosecutor, Mwala Museta, strongly opposed the bail request, citing concerns that the couple is a flight risk due to their lack of a fixed residence in Zambia.
This case is a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect our nation’s resources and uphold the law. At Afrozam Radio, we will continue to follow this story closely and provide updates on developments as they happen.