Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura
A 41-YEAR-OLD Bulawayo man who stole a 5kg gas cylinder and garden tools from his mother has been sentenced to an effective five months in prison.
Goodluck Muchichwa of Emakhandeni appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Mr Jeconia Prince Ncube, who convicted him of theft.
He was initially sentenced to nine months. However, the months were suspended for three years on condition he does not commit a similar offence within that period. An additional one month was suspended on condition he restitutes his mother, the complainant, US$52, leaving him with five months to serve.
Prosecutor Ms Cathrine Kuzu told the court that the offence occurred on October 17
“On that day, the accused person went to Njube suburb and later returned home in Emakhandeni around 5 PM. He found his mother, Susan Muchichwa (65), absent,” she said.
Muchichwa took advantage of her absence and stole a 5kg gas cylinder, a garden pick, a shovel and a metal dish before leaving with the items.
When the complainant returned, she discovered the property missing and reported the matter to police. Investigations led to the arrest of the accused.
None of the stolen goods were recovered.
derick.khumalo