???????? ??????? ???????? ???? ??? ????? ????? ???????
By Staff Reporter
A fugitive Chinese national who fled Zimbabwe while facing theft charges is now accused of spearheading a smear campaign aimed at discrediting his former business associates and destabilising a joint mining venture valued in the millions.
Xu Zhixue, who was working for Podhill (Private) Limited, escaped from Zimbabwe earlier this year after allegatioms of theft.
He had been arrested for allegedly stealing nearly US$4,800 from the company’s Standard Chartered Bank account — an offence recorded under RRB 248/03/25 at ZRP Gweru Central.
Authorities confirmed that Xu vanished shortly after being granted temporary release, failing to appear in court as required.
His whereabouts remained unknown until recently, when his name resurfaced in what industry insiders are describing as a “well-orchestrated campaign” to damage the reputation of Podhill’s majority shareholder, Generous Resources (Pvt) Ltd, and its chairman, Mr Zuo Wenzhong.
Investigations indicate that the fallout between Mr Zuo and Xu Zhixue — together with Xu’s uncle, Li Yajun — marked the beginning of a bitter feud that has spilled across borders.
Sources close to the matter allege that after leaving Zimbabwe, Xu and Li conspired to fabricate documents suggesting that Podhill had smuggled over 120 kilograms of gold, worth nearly US$10 million, out of the country.
The sensational allegations, which were published in sections of the local media, were reportedly based on AI-generated documents designed to appear authentic.
The purported “evidence” quickly circulated online, raising alarm within the mining industry and prompting a preliminary inquiry by law enforcement authorities — which has since confirmed there is no record of such a smuggling operation.
Podhill (Private) Limited is a joint venture between Generous Resources (Pvt) Ltd (which holds 60 percent of the shares) and Milhub (Pvt) Ltd, which owns 40 percent.
Milhub’s principal shareholders are Mohamad Taleb and Mohamad Karim, both Australian nationals with long-standing business interests in Zimbabwe.
Speaking to this publication, Mr Taleb expressed deep concern over the reputational and financial harm caused by the false allegations.
“I have worked and invested in Zimbabwe for over 20 years, contributing to local employment and development. It is heartbreaking to see malicious lies being spread by people who once benefited from this partnership,” said Taleb.
“The false story has not only disrupted operations but also shaken investor confidence. Our shareholders are innocent, yet we are now battling to repair the damage caused by a fugitive who is trying to settle old scores.”
The controversy has sent ripples through the mining community, with stakeholders warning that such false reports could deter foreign investment in Zimbabwe’s gold sector.
An official close to the Ministry of Mines, speaking on condition of anonymity, said authorities are aware of the misinformation campaign and are working with law enforcement counterparts to track Xu Zhixue’s activities abroad.
“This is a clear case of a disgruntled individual attempting to weaponize fake information. We are treating the matter seriously because it tarnishes the image of Zimbabwe’s mining sector,” the official said.
Meanwhile, police have maintained that Xu Zhixue remains a wanted person in connection with the theft case and could face further charges related to cyber defamation and the dissemination of falsified information.
Info News
Drug Rehab Treatment Centers: How to Choose the Right Program
Choosing a drug rehab treatment center is an important decision for individuals and families facing substance use challenges. The right program can provide structure, support, therapy, and recovery planning. However, not every treatment center is the same, so it is important to understand what to compare.
rnrn
Drug rehab programs may include inpatient treatment, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient care, standard outpatient care, and aftercare support. The best level of care depends on the person’s substance use history, health needs, home environment, mental health concerns, and risk of relapse.
rnrn
Inpatient or residential treatment usually provides 24-hour support in a structured setting. This may be helpful for people who need a stable environment away from triggers. Outpatient treatment allows people to live at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions. This may work better for people with strong support systems and less severe needs.
rnrn
Medical detox may be needed for some substances. Detox should be supervised by qualified medical professionals because withdrawal can be uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous. Detox alone is usually not a complete treatment plan; it is often the first step before therapy and long-term recovery work.
rnrn
A quality treatment center should offer individualized care. Addiction recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Treatment may include individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, relapse prevention planning, medication-assisted treatment when appropriate, and mental health support.
rnrn
Licensing and accreditation matter. Families should ask whether the facility is licensed in its state and whether staff members are qualified. It is also important to ask about treatment methods, patient safety, staff-to-client ratio, and emergency procedures.
rnrn
Cost is another factor. Some rehab centers accept insurance, while others require private payment. Before admission, ask for a clear explanation of costs, insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and refund policies.
rnrn
Location can also matter. Some people benefit from being close to family. Others may need distance from unhealthy environments. The right decision depends on the person’s support system and recovery goals.
rnrn
Aftercare is one of the most important parts of treatment. Recovery does not end when a program is completed. A strong discharge plan may include outpatient therapy, support groups, sober living, relapse prevention strategies, and follow-up appointments.
rnrn
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Anyone facing substance use concerns should speak with a qualified healthcare or addiction treatment professional.
rn
Medicare Supplement Plans for Seniors
Medicare Supplement Plans: What Seniors Should Know
Original Medicare helps pay for healthcare, but it does not cover everything. Medicare supplement plans, also called Medigap plans, help pay some out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Many seniors compare Medicare supplement plans to reduce surprise medical bills and create more predictable healthcare costs.
How Medigap Works
Medigap plans work with Original Medicare. They are sold by private insurance companies and help cover gaps in Medicare coverage.
These plans are different from Medicare Advantage plans. Medicare Advantage is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits, while Medigap supplements Original Medicare.
Choosing a Plan
When comparing plans, seniors should consider premiums, doctors, prescriptions, travel coverage, and expected medical needs.
Conclusion
Medicare supplement plans can help seniors manage healthcare costs. Before choosing a plan, compare coverage, pricing, and provider access.
