Harare Magistrate Issues Warrant for Chinese Businesswoman’s Arrest
Harare magistrate Sandra Mupindu has issued a warrant for the arrest of Chinese businesswoman Li Song after she failed to appear in court, where she was the complainant in an ongoing legal dispute. Li had reported her former business partner, Francesco Marconati, to the police for theft of trust property.
The failure of Li to appear in court for the commencement of the trial prompted the magistrate to issue the arrest warrant. Zvikomborero Mupasa represented the state in the proceedings.
The dispute between Li and Marconati revolves around allegations of financial impropriety. Li claims that Marconati transferred Z$200 million from the company coffers of their Marondera-based leather company, Eagle Italian Leather, and Eagle Italian Shoes. This money was allegedly deposited into the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, where they were leasing Mana Pools, without her knowledge.
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Marconati, on the other hand, reported Li to the authorities for money laundering and externalization. The legal battle intensified after it was discovered that Li had transferred company funds to her Mauritius-registered firm, Jacaranda Consulting Services, resulting in her removal from the directorship of the Marondera firm.
According to Newsday, Efforts to apprehend Li for money laundering in the past have been unsuccessful, amid concerns that she may have influential connections with top politicians and police officials.
The case highlights the complexities and challenges of legal disputes involving international business interests and allegations of financial misconduct.
