Chinhoyi toddler snatcher convicted

Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI

A 21-YEAR-OLD MAN, who kidnapped a two-year-old child, has been convicted.

Blessing Santu, who resides in Chikonohono suburb, was found guilty before Chinhoyi magistrate, Sharon Rakafa.

He was charged with kidnapping or unlawful detention, under Section 92 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform Act chapter 9:23).

He will be sentenced today.

Prosecuting, Tendai Tapi, told the court Santu kidnapped the two-year-old, before he was rescued a few hours after he went missing.

The court heard that on June 12, 2022, at around 1pm, at No. 10316 Industrial Sites, Chinhoyi, the toddler, who is the son of Yeukai Nyasocha, was playing with his other siblings at home.

The elder of the two siblings started screaming to his mother that the baby had been snatched by Santu.

The court further heard that Santu took him to an unknown place, prompting a search to be conducted.

Luckily, the toddler was found.

After being nabbed, Santu failed to give a satisfactory answer as to why he had taken the minor.

Santu was arrested and subsequently taken to court.