The formal extradition application for Chinese businessman Jin Houyun is expected to be submitted to Eswatini within two weeks.
This was disclosed by Principal Crown Counsel Macebo Nxumalo at the Manzini Magistrates Court. Nxumalo told Manzini Principal Magistrate David Khumalo that authorities in the Republic of China had assured Eswatini that the extradition request would be delivered within the specified timeframe.
As a result, the matter was postponed to March 25, pending the submission of the formal application.
Houyun is wanted in China over alleged large-scale financial crimes. Chinese authorities claim that between January 2017 and December 2020, he solicited investments from the public as the legal representative of a company without the necessary regulatory approval.
The scheme allegedly promised investors annual returns of 8–10%, attracting significant sums. Reports indicate that more than 8 000 people were affected, with total losses estimated at about 1.28 billion Yuan (approximately E4.3 billion). Prosecutors further allege that Houyun personally profited illegally to the tune of 8 million Yuan (around E27 million).
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The extradition request was communicated via the Chinese National Central Bureau of Interpol after authorities alerted Eswatini that Houyun was wanted for the large public deposits scam.
Houyun was arrested in the kingdom during an intelligence-led operation by the Tingculungculu Unit of the Royal Eswatini Police Service, which investigates serious crimes. He was apprehended at Tubungu in Matsapha, where he was reportedly residing under an alias.
Following his arrest, Houyun was charged with 13 offences, including 11 counts of fraud, one count of bribery, and one count of possession of dagga. Investigators allege that he was found with fraudulent identity documents, including a fake diplomatic passport, and attempted to bribe an investigator with E2 400 to avoid arrest.
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