adminClara Mdefi
Three Chimanimani men were dragged to Mutare criminal courts last Friday following allegations of illegally cutting down 40 gum trees that belonged to Allied Timbers Estate Cashel.
Abisha Chinawa (42),Taitos Chinawo (32) and Lazarus Mundembe (70) subjects of Chief Mutambara appeared before magistrate Annie Ndiraya and pleaded guilty to charges of contravening The Forest Act chapter 19;05 in section 78 of Unnecessary cut down of trees.
Magistrate Annie Ndirayi ruled the case by granting the three accused persons a $50 fine or 20 days imprisonment on condition of failing to return the timber back to the Estate.
It was brought to light that on October 15, the three accused intentionally and unlawfully cut and collected 40 gum trees at the Tandai forest without the lawful authority of the Allied Timbers Estate Cashel.
The matter was reported by Keneth Temberere a staff member of the complainant leading to the arrest of the accused.
Cuthbert Bhosha represented the state.
Online Reporter