Charges dropped against Singaporean in Zimbabwe gold fraud case

The State has withdrawn fraud, money laundering and gold possession charges against Singaporean national Mark Yong Khong Yong, citing lack of evidence.

The charges were withdrawn before plea by Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo, bringing an abrupt end to the case.

Yong, who was represented by lawyers Everson Chatambudza and Allan Masiya, had been arrested in connection with allegations of a US$1.5 million mining investment fraud.

He was intercepted by police at the Norton tollgate while travelling in a black Lexus SUV with three other individuals. A subsequent search of his Borrowdale residence reportedly led to the recovery of about 10 grammes of suspected gold nuggets, raising questions over whether he possessed the necessary permits.

Authorities had initially alleged that Yong was linked to a scheme in which a foreign investor was defrauded of approximately US$1.5 million.

He had been granted bail of US$1,500 on March 16.

However, prosecutor Lawrence Gangarahwe told the court that further investigations had established that Yong and his alleged accomplice were not involved in the offences, leading the State to withdraw all charges.

The withdrawal effectively clears Yong of the allegations, with no further prosecution expected on the matter.