Man loses finger as robbers snatch money bag

Danisa Masuku

A man from Matsheumhlope suburb in Bulawayo was the victim of a double tragedy last week when two thieves snatched his bag containing US$350 and severed part of his finger in the process.This was heard when Reuben Kamashi appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Evia Matura facing a robbery charge. He pleaded not guilty to the charge but was convicted after a full trial and sentenced to 48 months in jail.

The magistrate suspended 12 months on condition of good behaviour, a further 12 months were suspended on condition that he restitutes the complainant US$350 by 31 August. Kamashi will effectively serve 24 months in jail.In sentencing him, the magistrate said the offender wasted the court’s time by denying the offence while there was overwhelming evidence nailing him. She also said Kamashi benefited from the crime since the money was not recovered.

She further stated that Kamashi displayed no remorse. He attacked Gladman Mthunzi with a knobkerrie and bit off part of his finger, causing severe injury.The court heard that Mthunzi was walking along Jason Moyo Street last Thursday. As he reached the corner of 9th Avenue and Jason Moyo Street, Kamashi and his accomplice accosted him. They struck him with a log and threatened to stab him.

In the midst of that, one of the thieves snatched Mthunzi’s bag containing US$350 and fled.Mthunzi gave chase and managed to catch up with him. During the ensuing struggle to retrieve his bag, Kamashi bit off part of Mthunzi’s finger. He reported the matter to the police and investigations led to the arrest of Kamashi.