Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Crime Reporter
A FORM Six learner appeared before the Mutare Magistrates’ Court this week, accused of stealing US$3 202 from his school administration office, and used it to buy a car.
The suspect, Martin Chitembwe (19), who is a learner at St James Zongoro High School in Mutasa, is facing charges of unlawful entry into premises and theft – as defined in Section 131 (2) (e) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act (Chapter 9:23).
He appeared before Mutare provincial magistrate, Mr Poterai Gwezhira, while Ms Joice Tinarwo prosecuted.
Chitembwe denied the charges, and was remanded out of custody to April 26 for trial.
Ms Tinarwo said Chitembwe entered the office without permission, and stole US$3 202.
Chitembwe allegedly deceived the deputy head, Mrs Marian Masango, into giving him the office keys, claiming he was sent by Reverend Bezel Matikiti. He allegedly unlocked the main door and clerk’s office, stealing cash from the accounts clerk’s drawer. The matter came to light after the police received a tip-off that Chitembwe had bought a black Toyota Lexus.
He confessed stealing the money, and using it to buy the vehicle.
“The matter came to light when police received a tip-off that the accused person had bought a black Toyota Lexus, Registration Number ACN0112, and arrested him. After interrogations, the accused confessed stealing the money from the clerk’s office and bought the motor vehicle,” said Ms Tinarwo.
Authorities recovered US$2 400 and impounded the vehicle.
