Harare police detained a 57-year-old Chinese citizen after discovering contraband wildlife products during a residence search on July 16. Cong Yanzhong possessed three rhinoceros horns weighing 7.70 kilograms without proper documentation. Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department's Minerals, Flora, and Fauna Unit conducted the operation based on intelligence reports. The suspect concealed the horns using shrink-wrap packaging methods. Authorities estimated the value of the illegal specimens at $240,000 on the black market.
Investigators also recovered four raw ivory pieces, totaling 36.15 kilograms, from sacks near the weighing equipment. The National Prosecuting Authority estimated the ivory's worth at $6,145.50 during official assessments. Combined seizures reached $246,145.50 in total street value according to law enforcement calculations. Prosecutors oppose any bail applications for the trafficking charges. Yanzhong faces fast-track court proceedings scheduled for July 22 under Zimbabwe's wildlife protection statutes.
Investigators also recovered four raw ivory pieces, totaling 36.15 kilograms, from sacks near the weighing equipment. The National Prosecuting Authority estimated the ivory's worth at $6,145.50 during official assessments. Combined seizures reached $246,145.50 in total street value according to law enforcement calculations. Prosecutors oppose any bail applications for the trafficking charges. Yanzhong faces fast-track court proceedings scheduled for July 22 under Zimbabwe's wildlife protection statutes.
