42-year old woman steals from money club

A 42-YEAR-OLD Bulawayo woman has been ordered to perform 70 hours of community service for stealing US$723 and ZAR6 040 entrusted to her by a social club.

Molly Ngorima of Entumbane Suburb, who had been responsible for managing funds for the Phakamani Social Club, was convicted on her own plea of guilty to the theft by Western Commonage magistrate, Mr Mehluli Moyo, on Wednesday.

Ngorima was sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment of which six months were suspended for five years on condition that she does not commit a similar offence within that period.

An additional two months were suspended on condition that Ngorima performs 70 hours of community service at ZRP Entumbane.

The remaining six months were suspended on condition that she restitutes the full amount of US$723 and ZAR6 040 to the complainant.

In passing sentence, Mr Moyo noted that Ngorima was a first-time offender and had pleaded guilty, saving the court time. However, she emphasized that cases involving dishonesty were on the rise and that the law must send a clear message to potential offenders.

Prosecutor, Mrs Ellen Matenga said Ngorima was entrusted with the money by the Phakamani Social Club, and as the club’s treasurer, she was responsible for safe keeping of the club’s money.

Between July and November 2024, Ngorima was given a total of US$1 036 and ZAR9 390 to keep.

Instead of fulfilling her duty, she converted the money to her personal use.

Mrs Matenga said Ngorima was supposed to handover the money on behalf of the club in December last year. Instead Ngorima failed to account for the money upon demand.

Only US$313 and ZAR 3 350 was recovered.