Lin Yunhua released after Malawi prosecutors drop bribery case

Lin Yunhua, a convicted Chinese wildlife trafficker, has been released from Dedza Medium Security Prison in Malawi after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) abruptly discontinued corruption proceedings against him.

The bribery case involved allegations that Lin offered a MK30 million bribe and promised to complete the construction of a house for an official to influence proceedings related to his previous wildlife trafficking and money laundering convictions. This decision follows a recent ruling by the High Court Financial Crimes Division, which had rejected Lin’s bail application due to his status as a flight risk.

Anti-corruption watchdogs, including the National Anti-Corruption Alliance (NACA) and the Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency (CSAT), have criticized the move. Campaigners described the discontinuance as “disturbing and worrisome,” warning it could undermine national efforts to combat corruption. The case has also faced scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest involving the DPP.