A 40-YEAR-OLD Chinese national was on Friday dragged to the Harare Magistrates’ Court facing a charge of fraud involving US$322 381.
Harare magistrate Donald Ndirowei granted Xiang Jun US$300 bail.
Xiang was remanded to August 20 this year.
He was ordered not to interfere with State witnesses.
Initially, the State, represented by Rufaro Chonzi, opposed bail, arguing that there was evidence linking Xiang to the offence, including possession of a stolen radio.
The prosecution also noted that the complainant had positively identified Xiang and acknowledged a signed receipt for the money.
Chonzi said the suspect might have pending cases in court, hence there was need for verification.
He further contended that Xiang, being a Chinese national, posed a flight risk and can flee to China if released.
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Additionally, the State argued that Xiang might interfere with evidence, influence witnesses or commit further offences.
Given the seriousness of the charge, Chionzi argued, a custodial sentence was likely if he is convicted.
It was the State’s case that in June 2024, Xiang misrepresented to the complainant that he could supply chrome, antimony and copper, as well as secure an export licence.
Acting on this misrepresentation, the complainant paid US$322 381 for the minerals and export licence.
Xiang allegedly signed an acknowledgement of receipt, which can be produced in court as evidence.
However, after receiving payment, Xiang allegedly became evasive and failed to deliver the goods and the licence.
As a result, the complainant suffered a loss of US$322 381, with nothing recovered.
