Robbers Brutally Assault Chinese Bonanza Dealer in Monze, Steal K84,000 in Coins
A 50 year old Chinese national and Bonanza dealer was left fighting for his life after armed robbers violently attacked him at his home in Monze and stole K84,000 in coins.
The victim, identified as Lin Qin Bing, a well known figure in the area due to his gaming machines, was attacked around 02:11 hours on Tuesday after suspected criminals allegedly scaled the wall and forcibly broke into his residence.
According to police, Bing confronted the intruders after hearing unusual noises but was quickly overpowered. The suspects handcuffed him and repeatedly assaulted him with a metal bar, leaving him severely injured and bleeding.
Amid the ordeal, the housemaid managed to discreetly send a distress message to a neighbour, 40-year-old Faides Nakauma, who rushed to assist. Upon arrival, Nakauma reportedly heard gunshots and immediately alerted the Zambia Police Service.
By the time officers arrived at the scene, the suspects had fled. Investigations revealed that the padlock on the main gate and the locking system of the main door had been forcibly broken.
Police discovered that the assailants had loaded plastic bags filled with one-kwacha coins into the victim’s Toyota Hilux Twin Cab after obtaining the keys from the bedroom. However, the vehicle was left behind.
Southern Province Commissioner of Police, Moono Namalongo, confirmed that the stolen coins amounted to K84,000. He said officers recovered a homemade firearm resembling a pistol loaded with a 12 bore empty cartridge, a torch, a bolt cutter, two unmarked hand grenades and the car keys from the yard.
“The suspects loaded plastic bags of one kwacha coins onto a Toyota Hilux Twin Cab vehicle belonging to the victim, having obtained the keys from the bedroom, but failed to drive away with it,” Namalongo said.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspects. Authorities warned that those involved in the attack would face the full force of the law as investigations continue.