Online Reporter
Solomon Bhumu
Mutare Bureau
A 42-year-old man from Chitsiku Village, under Chief Marange, has been slapped with a nine-year jail term after being convicted of stock theft by a Mutare magistrate.
Saymore Chasara was found guilty of stealing a black-and-white bull belonging to Grace Makanyire (50) of Makunika Village, Chief Marange.
He appeared before magistrate Honest Musiyiwa charged with stock theft.
Prosecutor Chris Manyuku told the court that on Friday last week, Chasara took advantage of cattle grazing in Makunika Village and stole the bull.
The following day, he attempted to sell it at Muchabaiwa Mapuka’s homestead.
“Chasara went to Muchabaiwa Mapuka’s homestead intending to sell the stolen bull. Sensing irregularities, Mapuka alerted the police at ZRP Marange.
“Upon interviewing Chasara, police discovered the bull had been stolen,” said Manyuku.
Chasara was arrested and taken to ZRP Marange. Further investigations led by Sergeant Gadha and Constable Hungwe helped locate the rightful owner, Makanyire.
Magistrate Musiyiwa sentenced Chasara to nine years behind bars, sending a strong message against livestock theft in rural communities. “Stock theft is a serious offence that threatens rural livelihoods and breeds lawlessness. The court must send a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” said Magistrate Musiyiwa.
