A Chinese national convicted of possessing rhinoceros horns valued at $120,000 awaits a mandatory nine-year prison term after magistrate Ruth Moyo found him guilty following trial proceedings in Harare. Fuxi Wang initially denied charges but was convicted based on evidence presented by prosecutors. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for Thursday.
Authorities arrested Wang after detectives conducting surveillance operations observed him transferring a white package to an associate at an Alexandra Park residence gate during February. The associate drove away in a rented Nissan and met with a freight handler who received an additional $200 payment. Officers intercepted the vehicle and discovered sculptures containing concealed horn material wrapped in transparent plastic inside a cardboard container.
Wang had earlier hired the handler for $600 to ship items to China, describing the cargo as artistic pieces. Wildlife officials and immigration personnel witnessed the package inspection. When investigators requested documentation authorizing horn possession, Wang could not produce permits or licenses. His associate was released after the prosecution's testimony concluded.
Authorities arrested Wang after detectives conducting surveillance operations observed him transferring a white package to an associate at an Alexandra Park residence gate during February. The associate drove away in a rented Nissan and met with a freight handler who received an additional $200 payment. Officers intercepted the vehicle and discovered sculptures containing concealed horn material wrapped in transparent plastic inside a cardboard container.
Wang had earlier hired the handler for $600 to ship items to China, describing the cargo as artistic pieces. Wildlife officials and immigration personnel witnessed the package inspection. When investigators requested documentation authorizing horn possession, Wang could not produce permits or licenses. His associate was released after the prosecution's testimony concluded.
