Public anger is mounting in Zimbabwe after nine Chinese nationals, arrested for cocaine possession, walked away with minimal penalties each fined just US$150 or facing an alternative six-month jail term.
The group was apprehended in Harare on September 3, 2025, during a police raid that allegedly uncovered cocaine, methamphetamine, and other illicit substances. They spent only one night in custody before being granted bail, and their case was concluded in less than two weeks.
Many Zimbabweans have condemned what they see as glaring judicial double standards. While locals often face lengthy trials and harsh jail sentences for minor offences like cannabis possession, the foreign nationals received swift bail and light fines for serious drug crimes.
David Coltart openly questioned the integrity of Zimbabwe’s justice system, contrasting the quick release of the Chinese nationals with the prolonged detention of opposition leader Job Sikhala.
Critics further highlighted the irony that in China, drug offences often carry extremely harsh penalties including execution while Chinese citizens in Zimbabwe are seemingly treated with leniency.
