A viral video of a violent altercation between a Chinese national and a Zimbabwean national has made headlines in Gweru.
The Chinese national, identified as Wang Jing, appeared before the Gweru Magistrates Court on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.
Wang Jing, 35, was arrested for allegedly sh00ting at Kholwani Dube on January 21, 2025, at Bijou Farm.
He is also accused of using expl0sives without a blasting license and engaging in illegal gold prospecting at the farm in 2024.
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The altercation between Wang Jing and Dube reportedly arose from an unpaid wages dispute between Dube and the farm manager, Liu Haifeng, a Chinese national, who allegedly failed to pay Dube approximately US$600.
Wang Jing’s actions were seen as an intervention in the scuffle between the two men, but his decision to brandish a firearm at Dube has sparked widespread outrage and concerns about the escalating tensions on the farm.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Wang Jing is facing three charges:
1. Unlawful use of a firearm
2. Using explosives without a blasting license
3. Engaging in illegal gold prospecting without a permit
Wang Jing was remanded in custody until February 7, 2025, pending trial.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of Zimbabwean workers on Chinese-owned farms and calls for greater scrutiny of foreign investments in the country’s mining sector.