Published: 11 November 2025

A fugitive Chinese national who fled Zimbabwe while facing theft charges has been accused of leading a smear campaign to discredit his former business partners and destabilise a joint mining venture.

He Qinggang, who previously worked for Podhill (Private) Limited, reportedly escaped to China early this year after being released on summons by police in Gweru.

He had been arrested for allegedly stealing nearly US$4,800 from the company's bank account - an offence recorded under RRB 248/03/25 at ZRP Gweru Central. Police sources confirmed that He absconded shortly after being granted temporary release and failed to appear in court.

His whereabouts remained unknown until recently, when his name resurfaced in what industry insiders describe as a "well-orchestrated campaign" to tarnish the image of Podhill's majority shareholder, Generous Resources (Pvt) Ltd, and its chairperson, Mr Zuo Wenzhong.

Investigations indicate that a fallout between He and Mr Zuo - together with He's uncle, Li Yajun - sparked a bitter feud that has now spilled across borders.

Sources close to the matter allege that after leaving Zimbabwe, He and Li fabricated documents claiming that Podhill had smuggled over 120 kilogrammes of gold, valued at nearly US$10 million, out of the country.

The sensational claims, which appeared in some sections of the media, were reportedly supported by AI-generated documents designed to look authentic.

The alleged "evidence" circulated widely online, prompting a preliminary inquiry by law enforcement authorities. However, police have since confirmed that no record exists of such a smuggling operation.

Podhill (Private) Limited is a joint venture between Generous Resources (Pvt) Ltd, which holds a 60% shareholding, and Milhub (Pvt) Ltd, which owns 40%. Milhub's principal shareholders, Mohamad Taleb and Mohamad Karim, are Australian nationals with long-standing business interests in Zimbabwe.

Speaking to this publication, Mr Taleb expressed concern over the reputational and financial damage caused by the false allegations.

"I have worked and invested in Zimbabwe for over 20 years, contributing to local employment and development. It is heartbreaking to see malicious lies being spread by people who once benefited from this partnership," he said.

"The false story has disrupted operations and shaken investor confidence. Our shareholders are innocent, yet we are now forced to repair the damage caused by a fugitive trying to settle old scores."

The controversy has caused unease in the mining sector, with stakeholders warning that such fabrications risk undermining investor confidence in Zimbabwe's gold industry.

Police sources confirmed that He Qinggang remains a wanted person in connection with the theft case and could face additional charges related to the publication of false information.
- NewsDay

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