Department of International Relations and Cooperation confirms the sentencing to death of a South African citizen in China

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation, through its Consulate General in Shangai,  has been seized with the issue of a South African citizen sentenced to death for drug smuggling in China since August 2009.

Following a confirmatory hearing of the Court in Guangzhou yesterday, 08 April 2010 the Court upheld its earlier decision of imposing the death penalty.

The Department confirms that  the case has been referred to the High Court in Beijing for a final decision. In this regard the Department wishes to confirm that the judicial process is therefore ongoing. 

Nonetheless, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, on behalf of Government,  continues to engage with the relevant Chinese authorities regarding a possible commuting of the death sentence.  South Africa’s Ambassador in Beijing, Ndumiso Ntshinga is leading Government’ efforts in this regard.

Consular assistance is being rendered to both the detainee and her family. 

For more information contact Mr Mahlatsi Mminele on 082 8899432

Issued by the Department International Relations and Cooperation.
Private Bag X152
Pretoria, 0001

09 April 2010