A CHINESE businessman has been detained at Kanyama Police Station in Lusaka for allegedly swindling a fellow Chinese national out of US$55,000 in a fraudulent gold transaction.
According to a statement issued by spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, the suspect, identified as Liang Qi, aged 45 was apprehended in the early hours of yesterday at around 05:00 hours.
Liang is accused of obtaining money by false pretences, contrary to Section 309 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
The arrest follows a report made by Sun Jun, a 46 year old Chinese national residing in Emmasdale, who alleged that on May 23, 2025, he was duped into purchasing what he believed to be genuine gold.
The transaction reportedly took place at around 10:00 hours on the mentioned date.
Police investigations revealed that Liang Qi misrepresented himself as a legitimate gold dealer and presented counterfeit minerals to the complainant in exchange for USD 55,000.
Following the report, police launched investigations that led to the successful apprehension of the suspect.
However, authorities have indicated that the stolen funds have not yet been recovered.
Liang is currently in police custody and is expected to appear in court soon.
“Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided in due course,” said Hamoonga.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, June 16, 2025
