Zimbabweans have voiced anger after nine Chinese nationals convicted of possessing cocaine were each fined just US$150 (about R2,700), with a six-month jail term as the alternative.
The case, reported by Daily News on 13 September 2025, has fueled debate over lenient sentencing and inconsistencies in the justice system.
The group was arrested during a police raid in Harare on 3 September 2025, where cocaine, methamphetamine and other drugs were allegedly recovered. They appeared in court the following day and were granted bail after spending a single night in custody. Their trial and sentencing were completed in less than two weeks.
The unusually light punishment has prompted criticism from opposition politicians and civil society. Lawyer and activist Fadzayi Mahere flagged the case on X, posting simply: “Just look. Don’t comment.”
Former Education Minister David Coltart went further, questioning the credibility of Zimbabwe’s courts.
“How can foreigners be convicted of cocaine possession and walk away with a US$150 fine, while people like Job Sikhala have spent over 500 days in prison for exercising freedom of expression? Something is seriously wrong,” Coltart wrote.
Other commentators argued the ruling undermines confidence in the judiciary, particularly given the severity of Zimbabwe’s drug laws.
Many citizens highlighted the contrast between this case and how locals are treated. Zimbabweans accused of possessing even small amounts of cannabis are often denied bail and can spend months or years awaiting trial.
On Facebook, user Tonderai Chipindu remarked:
“Two minutes bail for foreigners, yet Zimbabweans are kept in remand for months without bail.”
Another, Mai Mumu Chigz, pointed to harsher realities:
“Someone with 1 gram of weed is denied bail and spends a year in prison. These ones had cocaine and got bail and a fine.”
Online users drew comparisons with other crimes and penalties. Some noted that cable theft attracts 10-year jail terms, while cannabis possession has led to lengthy prison sentences. Others observed that in China, drug offences often carry the death penalty.
“The possibility is high they will continue dealing. What’s US$150 to drug lords?” wrote one user, Denford Chikanga.
For many, the rapid conclusion of the case and the light sentencing reinforced perceptions of double standards in Zimbabwe’s justice system—particularly between foreign nationals and ordinary citizens.
ALSO READ : ZESA to Replace Outdated Prepaid Meters Across Zimbabwe
