Two Chinese deny stealing over K17,000, illegal access of data
By Staff Reporter
TWO Chinese businessmen yesterday pleaded not guilty to theft of over K17,000 and illegally accessing data stored in a critical database at Zanaco Bank.
Taking plea before principal resident magistrate Mwaka Mikalile, Li Hong Sheng, 29 and Weng Jin Chang, 36 both of Lusaka’s Olympia Park, denied committing the offences.
However, Li Hong Sheng pleaded guilty to unlawful stay in Zambia without a permit and he will appear on July 22 for facts and sentencing.
In the first count, they are charged with unlawful possession of devices designed to overcome security measures for protection of data.
It is alleged that between May 1 and July 10, 2019 in Lusaka, Li and Weng had automated transmission cards (ATM) which were primarily designed to overcome security measures for the protection of data.
In the second count, they are charged with unauthorized access to data.
They are alleged to have intentionally accessed data stored in a critical data base, namely Zambia National Commercial Bank data base on the same dates.
In the third count, Li and Weng are charged with theft.
On the same dates, they allegedly stole K17,500 from Zanaco Bank.
Li is also charged with unlawful stay in Zambia with allegations being that on May 8, 2019, he remained in Zambia without an immigration permit or authority.
Weng, through his lawyer Mutembo Mutembo, applied for bail pending trial.
Mutembo said the accused is willing to provide credible sureties to secure his appearance when required and abide by bail conditions granted by the court.
Deputy State Advocate Gamaliel Zimba informed court that he was not objecting but prayed that the conditions make it impossible for him to elude court.
Magistrate Mikalile granted him K20,000 cash bail and provide threeworking sureties bound in the sum of K100,000.
The court also ordered him to submit businesses documents, passport and lease agreement showing proof of residence.
Trial in respect of the first three counts is expected to commence on August 12.
Weng will remain in custody until bail conditions are met.
