A Chinese national has been sentenced to 18 years in prison after being convicted on two counts of illegally dealing in protected wildlife products, a move hailed by authorities as a significant victory against poaching and trafficking.

Cong Yanzhong, 57, was sentenced by the Harare Magistrates Court after police detectives, acting on a tip-off, found him in possession of rhino horns and raw ivory with a combined street value of nearly US$250,000.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), police received a tip on July 16, 2025, about Yanzhong’s involvement in illegal wildlife trade.

Detectives located and followed him, spotting him with a black satchel and a brown carrier bag that matched the informant’s description.

A search was made, which uncovered three shrink-wrapped rhino horns weighing 7.7 kilograms and valued at US240,000.

Yanzhong, who failed to produce a permit or license, was immediately arrested.

A subsequent search of his Harare residence led to the discovery of four pieces of raw ivory weighing 36.15 kg, with a street value of US6,146.