Andrew
Online Reporter
THREE soldiers were on Saturday sentenced to 15 years in prison by an army court martial for armed robbery, unlawful entry and theft cases in Masvingo and surrounding areas.
The three had pleaded not guilty, but were convicted after a full trial.
In a press release, Zimbabwe Defence Forces director of public relations, Colonel Alphios Makotore, said the military was imposing deterrent sentences for offenders.
“General court martial sentences three soldiers to 15 years each for armed robbery, theft and unlawful entry as the military justice and deterrent sentences against rogue elements of the force continue to be dispensed,” Colonel Makotore said.
“Lance Corporal Ndlovu Fortune, and privates Manyanga Ratiel and Masase Kainos were on 05 March 2022 sentenced to 15 years imprisonment each by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Court Martial.”
He said the soldiers were convicted after a fully contested trial in Bulawayo after they had all pleaded not guilty.
“The trio who were all serving with 4 Infantry Brigade in Masvingo committed armed robbery, unlawful entry and theft cases in and around the ancient city between January and July 2021.
“Ndlovu was reduced to the rank of private before all three were discharged from the Zimbabwe National Army with ignominy , and sentenced to 15 years in prison each for the offences,” he said.
Colonel Makotore said ZNA has warned that any of its members caught on the wrong side of the law will face the full wrath of the law.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter