Two Chinese businessmen of Lusaka’s Olympia area have been dragged to court for allegedly stealing over K17,000 from ZANACO and unlawful possession of ATM cards designed to overcome security measures for protection of data.

In this matter, Li Hong Sheng, 29, and Weng Jin Chang, 36, are charged with four counts of unlawful possession of Automated Transmission (ATM) cards, unauthorised access of data, theft and unlawful stay in the country.

In count one, the duo is charged with unlawful possession of a device designed to overcome security measures for protection of data contrary to section 99(3) of the electronic communications and transaction Act number 21 of 2009 of the Laws of Zambia.

Particulars of the offence allege that between May 1 and July 10, this year, in Lusaka, Li and Weng possessed Automated Transmission (ATM) cards which were primarily designed to overcome security measures for the protection of data.

In count two, Li and Weng are charged with unauthorised access of data contrary to section 99(1) and 99(8) of the electronic communications and transaction Act number 21 of 2009 of the Laws of Zambia.

Particulars of the offence allege that on the same dates, the two intentionally accessed data stored in a critical data base namely, Zambia National Commercial Bank (ZANACO) data base.

In the third count, the two are charged with theft contrary to section 272 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

It is alleged that on the same dates, Li and Weng stole K17,500, property of ZANACO.

And in the last count, Li is charged with unlawful stay in Zambia contrary to section 53(3) of the Immigration and Deportation Act number 18 of 2010 of the Laws of Zambia.

It is alleged that on May 8, this year, Li, a foreigner of Chinese nationality, remained in Zambia without an immigration permit or authority.

The accused persons are on police bond but were not before court during the allocations.

Chief Resident magistrate Lameck Mwale allocated the matter to Principal Resident magistrate Mwaka Mikalile, where the accused are expected to take plea.