Two Chinese nationals remanded in Freetown over US$54,825 fraud charge

Two Chinese nationals, Jai Qibin and Zhou Rong, representing Sinotruck International Capital Co. Limited, have been remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown. The defendants appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Briama Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 facing charges of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretences.

The prosecution alleges that on April 26, 2025, the defendants conspired with associates in China to defraud Hong Kong What Group Co. Limited and Yang Ruilan of US$54,825. The funds were reportedly paid for the supply of 270 tyres, which the defendants allegedly represented would meet specific quality standards, such as Chaoyang and Double Coin brands, as per the contract.

During the court appearance, no plea was entered as the matter is being treated as a preliminary investigation. Defense counsel applied for bail, arguing that the accused are reputable businesspeople with no prior criminal record and have reliable sureties. However, the magistrate refused the bail application.