Chinese suspects in alleged $200,000 money laundering case claim poor health, seek court relief

Two Chinese nationals, Zhao Yanjing, and Zhao Changson, who are detained on charges of money laundering involving US$200,000 and 29.9 kilogrammes of gold, are reportedly in distress and poor health, according to their lawyer, Ndholvu Kwazinkosi.

Kwazinkosi filed an affidavit in the Lusaka High Court, arguing that their continued detention was unconstitutional.

The affidavit stated that the applicants have been in custody for over seven days and are unable to provide statements due to their distress and deteriorating health.

The two were arrested on August 12, 2024, by police officers at the Chirundu border while traveling from Zimbabwe.

They were suspected of carrying precious stones and undeclared foreign currency and have since been held at Lusaka Central Police Station.

Kwazinkosi revealed that the officer in charge had confirmed he was awaiting further instructions and was unable to grant bail to the accused.

The lawyer also noted that Zhao Yanjing required urgent medical attention, having been prescribed 14 days of bed rest.

Kwazinkosi had applied to the court for a writ ordering the officer in charge to immediately present the applicants before the court.

He urged the court to closely examine the legality of their detention and the denial of medical care.

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