Chinese citizens face deportation after Harare authorities imposed US$150 fines for cocaine possession charges. Yu Hefeng, Dong Yunmei, Yang Wanwan, Wu Yuejun, Yang Qin, Fang Yue, Sun Jie, Yao Wenming and Li Zhongju pleaded guilty to dangerous drug use. Zimbabwe's National Prosecuting Authority acknowledged widespread public criticism regarding the lenient penalties. Officials emphasized their dedication to fair prosecution regardless of defendants' nationality or social status. The authority confirmed deportation procedures have begun for all nine individuals.
Prosecutors received new directives demanding stricter charges and harsher sentences for future drug cases. The authority pledged aggressive pursuit of penalties reflecting the...