Online Reporter
Moreblessing Ncube
A BULAWAYO mechanic found himself in a tight corner after selling a client’s wheels for US$680 and vanishing with the loot.
Mukanwa Mathe (33) of Thorngrove was hauled before Tredgold Magistrate Maxwell Ncube, who slapped him with a US$300 fine.
If he fails to pay, he will spend three months behind bars.
On top of that, Mathe was ordered to pay back the full value of the wheels, US$680.
The court heard that in June, Mathe received four complete wheels, size 195/ 14 pro, from Gibson Sithole who had brought them in for repairs. But instead of doing the job, Mathe quietly sold the wheels and disappeared into the sunset.
Prosecutor Mehluli Ndlovu told the court that Mathe used the money to cover his personal expenses.
“Accused person used the proceeds to pay rent and other bills. He claimed he intended to pay the complainant once he had the money, but things didn’t go according to plan,” said Ndlovu.
Unfortunately for Sithole, none of the wheels were recovered, and he was left high and dry.
Mathe’s ploy of dodging consequences went flat like a punctured tyre, as the long arm of the law finally caught up with him.
