Harare – Zimbabwean authorities have arrested a Chinese national in connection with illegal financial transactions involving the externalization of US$880,000 to China without obtaining the necessary approval from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ). The arrest comes amid intensified government efforts to crack down on illicit financial activities, including capital flight and money laundering.
The accused, identified as Sun Limin, a 52-year-old businesswoman, was taken into custody on July 31, 2025, at her business premises located at 19 Basma, Graniteside, Harare. The arrest was confirmed by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), which indicated that the suspect had been under investigation for several months.
Chinese National Arrested For Externalizing US$880,000 to China
Sun Limin is facing multiple charges under the Exchange Control Act [Chapter 22:05] for transferring large sums of money — totalling US$880,000 — to China between January and July 2025, allegedly without the RBZ’s authorization. In addition, she has been charged under the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act [Chapter 9:24] for allegedly attempting to conceal the true origin, nature, and ownership of the funds, which authorities suspect may be proceeds of criminal activity.
Following her arrest, Sun was brought before the courts and granted US$500 bail. However, her bail conditions are strict. She was ordered to surrender her passport, effectively barring her from leaving the country, and is required to report to the police every Friday. Additionally, the court has prohibited her from interfering with witnesses or tampering with any evidence related to the ongoing investigation.
According to preliminary findings presented by the NPAZ, authorities uncovered several bills of entry related to imported goods brought in from China through Forbes Border Post. Witness statements from clearing agents, along with supporting documents and transaction records, have been collected as evidence pointing to the unlawful nature of the financial transfers.
The case has drawn national attention and underscores the growing concerns around financial crimes and regulatory violations in Zimbabwe. It also brings into focus the broader issue of illicit capital flight, a major challenge that has plagued Zimbabwe’s economy for years. Financial experts warn that the unchecked movement of money across borders — especially without regulatory oversight — undermines the country’s monetary stability and hinders economic development.
In recent years, Zimbabwe has stepped up its efforts to tighten financial regulations, strengthen surveillance mechanisms, and increase transparency in both domestic and international transactions. Authorities have also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, and various law enforcement agencies to ensure that all cross-border financial activity complies with local laws.
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This latest arrest is seen as part of a wider crackdown on illicit financial flows — particularly those involving foreign nationals and businesses — which are believed to contribute significantly to the depletion of Zimbabwe’s foreign currency reserves. The NPAZ has reiterated that the country will not tolerate the abuse of its financial systems and that all individuals, regardless of nationality, will be held accountable under the law.
“The law is clear — any externalization of funds must be approved by the relevant authorities,” a spokesperson from the NPAZ stated. “Cases like this highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and enforcement in our financial systems.”
Sun Limin’s case is expected to proceed to trial in the coming weeks as investigators continue to build their case. If found guilty, she could face significant fines or imprisonment under Zimbabwean law.
As the country continues to battle economic challenges, authorities have made it clear that they will not allow the exploitation of financial loopholes by individuals or businesses, and that transparency and accountability will remain central to all economic reform efforts.
