0
0
A 24-year-old man from Entumbane, Witness Sibanda, has been sentenced for stealing various household items from two Harris Lodges in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
The stolen items—valued at approximately US$480—included towels, bed sheets, light bulbs, a solar panel, a cup, and a plate.
According to reports, Sibanda had checked into the lodges as a regular guest but attempted to flee with the stolen items. His escape was foiled by vigilant lodge security personnel, with support from the local neighbourhood watch committee. Armed detectives later arrested him, and all the stolen property was recovered.
Sibanda appeared before Magistrate Eva Matura and pleaded guilty. In his plea for leniency, he said he was unmarried but had a six-year-old child, adding that the items were intended for personal use.
The court, however, dismissed his appeal for mercy. Sibanda was sentenced to 12 months in prison, with three months suspended for five years. The remaining nine months were commuted to 315 hours of community service at Siyazama Primary School.
