MARTIN MAWAYA
GWERU- Despite being granted bail by the High Court in the attempted murder case, Liu Haifeng could not enjoy his freedom after immigration officials immediately charged him with residing in the country illegally, without authority or permit.
It never rains but pours for the Chinese national and Ming Chang Sino-Mining Investment manager who is currently languishing in prison while standing trial for attempted murder.
Liu Haifeng (51), who was also accused of using explosives and prospecting for gold without a license, appeared in court yesterday for violating the Immigration Act.
The court heard that on September 23, 2023, Liu entered Zimbabwe and was issued a Temporary Employment Permit, which expired on January 15, 2025.
When he was arrested on January 21, 2025, for the attempted murder charge, it was discovered that his Temporary Employment Permit had expired on January 15, 2025.
Hence, his stay from January 16, 2025, until January 21, 2025, was deemed unlawful.
He was remanded in custody until March 20 for trial.
Meanwhile, Regional Magistrate Christopher Maturure dismissed his application for discharge at the close of the state case yesterday, and was put on his self-defense for the attempted murder charge.
Liu denied shooting three times at Kholwani Dube, asserting that he only fired two warning shots in the air to prevent Kholwani from harming other employees.
He was represented by renowned Gweru lawyer Brian Dube.
