Online Reporter
Lesley [email protected]
A BULAWAYO man who was found in illegal possession of drugs was on Thursday ordered to perform 210 hours of community service.
Ernest Madzinga (52) Gwabalanda suburb, was convicted on his own plea of guilty to unlawful possession of drugs and use of dangerous drugs as defined in section 157 (1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act by Western Commonage magistrate Mr Archie Wochiwunga.
Madzinga was sentenced to 12 months in prison, four of which were suspended for five years on condition that he does not commit a similar offence within that period.
The remaining eight months were suspended on condition that Madzinga perform 210 hours of community service at Luveve Police Station.
In delivering the sentence, Mr Wochiwunga expressed concern over the growing drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people, saying deterrent measures are required to combat the rising trend.
“Possession of dagga is becoming a common issue, and it is essential to send a strong message to prevent further occurrences. The implications of drug possession extend beyond the individual offender, potentially affecting Madzinga’s age group,” said Mr Wochiwunga.
Prosecuting, Mr Tafara Dzimbanhete said Madzinga was apprehended by detectives from the CID drugs section on 13 February upon receiving a tip-off.
“A search was conducted in the house leading to the recovery of 20 sachets of loose dagga in Madzinga’s bedroom, stashed in a washing basket leading to his arrest. The recovered dagga was taken to CID drugs section in Bulawayo and it weighted 0,038 kilogrammes,” said Mr Dzimbanhete.
Its street value is US$$20.
In a related case, a 28-year-old man appeared in court for illegally cultivating dagga at his backyard.
Elton Ndlovu of Entumbane suburb appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Mrs Learnear Khumalo, who remanded him in custody to March 3.
Prosecuting, Ms Mandrela Chisiiwa said the offence was committed on January19 when detectives from CID drugs section in Bulawayo received a tip off.
“On the same day, detectives proceeded to the accused’s house where they found Ndlovu. A search was conducted in the house leading to the recovery of three plants of dagga whose heights were 90 centimetres, 30 centimetres and 20 centimetres respectively,” said Ms Chisiiwa.
