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Ivan Zhakata, Herald Correspondent
Three men from Harare have been sentenced to nine years each for stealing cattle in Karoi and selling the meat in Harare.
Tapiwa Tsingidzi (34) of Dzivarasekwa, Fast Mutata (40) and Emmerson Makahamadze (36), both from Kuwadzana, appeared before the Karoi Magistrates’ Court.
They were facing stock theft charges.
The three were each found guilty and sentenced to nine and half years in prison. However, six months were suspended on condition that they restitute US$1 000 to the cattle owner.
Allegations are that on August 29 at Plot 62 Hopewell Selous, the trio went to the complainant’s cattle pen around 9pm equipped with knives, ropes and 50kg empty sacks.
They allegedly opened the cattle pen and took away two beasts.
The court heard that the three drove the beasts to a secluded bush about 4km away. They slaughtered the beasts and packed the meat into sacks. The carcasses were transported to Harare.
The matter only came to light when the three were caught trying to commit a similar crime.
Total value of the cattle is US$1 000 and nothing was recovered.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter