Singaporean businessman Mark Yong Khong Yoong arrested in Zimbabwe

Mark Yong Khong Yoong arrest Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a foreign national in connection with alleged criminal activities in the country, including fraud and the externalisation of funds.

In a statement, national police spokesperson Paul Nyathi said the suspect was arrested following investigations into a mining investment deal in which another foreign investor was allegedly defrauded of US$1.5 million. Police later identified the suspect as Singaporean businessman Mark Yong Khong Yoong. According to police, Yoong was arrested on 14 March 2026 at the Norton Tollgate while travelling in a black Lexus SUV with three other people.

“Upon arrest, police conducted a search of the vehicle, leading to the recovery of prepared dagga,” Nyathi said.

A subsequent search at Yoong’s residence in Borrowdale resulted in the recovery of approximately 10 grammes of suspected gold nuggets.

Police said authorities are currently verifying whether the suspect possesses the required permit to hold the recovered gold. Yoong is also facing allegations of money laundering after police reportedly discovered large sums of cash in his possession. However, authorities have not yet disclosed the exact quantities of cash, gold, or drugs seized. The businessman is currently being held at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters in Harare pending further investigations.

Police say the arrest stems from a fraud investigation involving a mining investment in which another foreign investor allegedly lost US$1.5 million. Authorities suspect the funds may have been externalised from Zimbabwe as part of the scheme, although investigations are ongoing.

Nyathi urged investors to conduct proper background checks before entering into mining deals.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges members of the public, particularly investors, to conduct thorough due diligence and verify ownership of mining claims with relevant authorities before entering into any transactions,” he said.

Reports indicate that Yoong has previously been linked to offshore companies and gaming interests and is known in gambling circles for participating in high-stakes betting. He was also reportedly involved in a 2021 case before the High Court of Singapore relating to debts owed to an Australian casino.

Police said further details about the case, including the exact quantities of cash, gold, and drugs allegedly seized, will be released as investigations progress. Authorities are also expected to determine whether additional charges may be brought against the businessman and whether any of his business interests in Zimbabwe are implicated.

Mark Yong Khong Yoong arrest Zimbabwe Republic Police