Chinese couple plead guilty to drug trafficking in Lusaka, claim drugs were for personal use

A Chinese couple residing in Lilayi have appeared before the Lusaka Magistrate’s Court and pleaded guilty to trafficking in heroin and methamphetamine, claiming the drugs were meant for personal use.

Kexia Zheng, 32, and his wife, Chenjiang Chen, 36, both unemployed, stood before Magistrate Mutinta Mwenya on July 3, 2025, where they admitted to two counts of drug trafficking.

According to court records, the couple were arrested on June 24, 2025, in Lusaka for being in possession of 0.96 grams of heroin and 1.49 grams of methamphetamine without lawful authority.

In the first count, relating to heroin, the duo was charged with trafficking in a narcotic substance, contrary to Section 15(1)(2) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act No. 35 of 2021.

During the plea, Zheng admitted the offence, stating, “I was found with heroin. My friend bought it for me to smoke.” Chen also confessed, saying, “It was for smoking.”

In the second count, involving methamphetamine, they were charged with trafficking in a psychotropic substance under the same Act.

Again, both Zheng and Chen admitted the offence, telling the court that the methamphetamine was for their personal consumption.

“It was for smoking,” said Zheng. When asked if he had any lawful excuse or justification, he replied, “No.” His wife echoed the same sentiment, stating, “I was smoking. I had no lawful excuse.”

The matter has been adjourned to Friday for presentation of facts and possible sentencing.

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