New Zealand Sect Leader Jailed for Manslaughter of Chinese Follower in Auckland

A New Zealand court has sentenced Zhang Shaobo, 57, to three years and nine months in prison for the manslaughter of Shulai Wang, a 70-year-old Chinese follower. Wang’s body was found in Auckland in February 2024, close to a marina, days after she died during what Zhang described as an exorcism ritual.

The court heard that Zhang, who led the Global Christian Life Association, subjected Wang to a ‘spiritual healing’ process. This involved depriving her of food and water for several days, along with physical manipulation, in an attempt to expel alleged demons. Wang, who suffered from Parkinson’s disease and other health issues, died from complications arising from this treatment.

Justice Graham Lang stated that Zhang’s actions, driven by a ‘fanatical’ belief system, amounted to a serious breach of duty of care. He noted the victim’s advanced age and vulnerability. While Zhang expressed remorse, the judge emphasised the profound impact on Wang's family, who had sent her to New Zealand for what they believed would be genuine spiritual guidance.

The Global Christian Life Association, an unregistered group operating from Zhang's home, attracted primarily elderly Chinese immigrants. This case highlights the dangers posed by unregulated religious groups exploiting vulnerable individuals under the guise of spiritual intervention.