Zim drug mule in Hong Kong court

A Zimbabwean woman - who was arrested in the Far East in March this year after being found in possession of hard drugs while en route to Thailand - appeared in a Hong Kong court yesterday. Foreign Affairs deputy director legal and consular Mr Chris Mavodza said Regina Makwembere appeared before a Hong Court, but was not formally charged. "She appeared in court on charges of possession of 1,3kg of amphetamine drugs, but was not asked to plead," Mr Mavodza said.

He said she was remanded in custody to June 29 and asked to look for a lawyer.

Makwembere was arrested in March at the Hong Kong International Airport after she was found with amphetamine drugs in her luggage.

Amphetamine is a psycho-stimulant drug that produces increased wakefulness and focus in association with decreased fatigue and appetite. Her arrest follows several warnings issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Zimbabweans to be wary of international drug syndicates that reportedly target locals.

Zimbabweans are used to transport consignments because they have less chances of raising suspicion. At least 16 Zimbabwean women are stuck in Asian jails, 14 convicted of drug smuggling and two others awaiting the conclusion of their trial and face the death penalty if convicted.

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