Nine Chinese nationals convicted of illegal possession of cocaine have been fined US$150 each by a Zimbabwean court, with the option of serving a six-month prison sentence if they fail to pay.
The convictions mark the latest development in a case that has attracted wide public attention since the arrests were made earlier this month. Police alleged that the group was caught in possession of cocaine during a raid, with some reportedly sniffing the substance when detectives arrived.
The accused initially appeared in court where prosecutors outlined the charges, while defense lawyers successfully applied for bail for nine of them. They were released after spending only one night in custody, with one suspect remaining in detention pending further legal proceedings.
This week’s ruling confirmed their conviction and sentencing through fines, which authorities said were issued in line with Zimbabwean law. The option of imprisonment remains if the fines are not paid.
Public reaction has been mixed, with some questioning whether fines of US$150 are sufficient punishment in a country intensifying its fight against drug abuse. The debate comes as Zimbabwean authorities continue to warn about the growing presence of dangerous drugs such as cocaine in local communities.
Law enforcement agencies said the case demonstrates that the courts are acting on drug offences, while community leaders continue to call for tougher measures against those found trafficking or dealing in narcotics.
The nine nationals are expected to pay their fines or face the six-month prison term, closing one chapter of a case that remains under the spotlight as Zimbabwe steps up its anti-narcotics operations.
