Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura, [email protected]
A Bulawayo man (34) walked free from court despite a four-month prison sentence after being convicted of stealing two 500g packets of kapenta fish, popularly known as matemba.
Nathaniel Phiri of New Luveve appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Mr Jeconia Prince Ncube, facing a charge of theft.
He pleaded guilty to the charge and was initially sentenced to four months in prison, which were wholly suspended for three years on condition that within that period he does not commit a similar offence.
Prosecutor, Ms Cathrine Kuzu, told the court that the complainant is Cover Supermarket, which was represented by Nomawathu Mhlanga (26).
She said on March 11, 2026, at around 11 AM and at Cover Supermarket at Chigumira Shopping Centre in Old Luveve, the accused person stole two 500 grams of kapenta from the supermarket.
The court heard that upon being noticed, the accused tried to run away and was caught outside the supermarket still in possession of the stolen item.
The total value stolen is US$15, and all was recovered, added Ms Kuzu.
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