Man in court for carjacking

Paidamoyo Bore

A 54-year-old man yesterday told Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi that he spent three days in custody without food and water after being arrested for car jacking.

Mandla Mpofu was remanded in custody to today for bail application when he appeared in court.

It is alleged that on February 8, Mandla, a former electronic waste grader, encountered his former workmate, Bruce Mabira.

The court heard that Mandla pretended to be looking for transport and stopped Bruce who was driving along Chiremba Road in his Toyota Hilux just before sunset.

Allegations are that Mandla begged Bruce to take him to Muguta area in Epworth where he claimed he was going to collect his money.

They drove together and were later joined by Mandla’s friend, only identified as Bhashu.

At around 7pm, Bruce told Mandla that he was going home, as it was getting late, but Mandla again pleaded with him to take them to Roadport bus terminus in town.

Mandla sat in the front passenger seat while his friend, Bhashu, sat at the back of the truck.

The State said after Bruce had driven for about 2.5km along Chiremba Road towards town, Mandla asked him to stop near Chiremba shops in Epworth.

Bruce stopped the car and Mandla started complaining about the way he was dismissed from work.

The court was told that Mandla was dismissed due to misconduct.

Mandla suddenly threatened to lock Bruce inside the car and burn the vehicle.

He produced a knife and cigarette lighter and ordered Bruce to alight and walk away from the car, threatening to stab him.

The State said Mandla and his friend drove away from the scene leaving Bruce stranded.

Bruce reported the matter to the police, and on February 11, detectives from the Vehicle Theft Section received information that Mandla had the stolen car in Mandara and arrested him.

Grace Mugocheke appeared for the State.