Harare, (New Ziana) – Nine Chinese nationals who pleaded guilty to cocaine use are facing deportation, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has said.
The individuals, whose lenient US$150 fine sentence sparked widespread public outrage, were convicted of using a dangerous drug, a serious offence under Zimbabwean law. In a statement, the NPAZ said the convicts are currently being processed for deportation.
“The NPAZ is aware of the public’s concern regarding the sentence handed down in the case involving nine Chinese nationals who pleaded guilty to using dangerous drugs (cocaine).
“The NPAZ can confirm that the nine individuals are currently awaiting deportation. We are committed to ensuring that all individuals are held accountable for their actions in accordance with the laws of Zimbabwe,” it said.
The NPAZ acknowledged public concern over the sentencing of the foreigners. “The use of dangerous drugs such as cocaine poses a significant threat to the well-being of our nation,” the authority said.
Henceforth, all public prosecutors have been instructed to prefer the correct charges in all drug-related cases and to aggressively pursue stiffer sentences that reflect the seriousness of these offences,” said the authority.
The authority said going forward, the prosecution of drug offences will be handled with increased efficiency and effectiveness. “This stance is a direct reflection of the direction that Zimbabwe has taken to combat drug abuse,” the NPAZ said. The development comes as the country steps up efforts to rid communities of dangerous substances.
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