adminTendai Gukutikwa
A HONDE Valley member of the Zviratidzo ZvaJehovha Apostolic Sect learnt it the hardest way that crime does not pay after being sentenced to six months imprisonment for possessing 2kg of mbanje.
Mutare magistrate, Mrs Annie Ndiraya, descended heavily on Trymore Nyagumbo (18) for possessing 2kg of mbanje, a crime which his father reported to Ruda Police Station causing his arrest.
Nyagumbo was convicted on his own guilty plea and sentenced to six months imprisonment, of which three months were suspended after the court took into consideration that he was a first offender who had not wasted the court’s time denying the charges.
The three months were also suspended on condition that he did not commit a similar offence in the next five years.
Although the State led by Mr Brian Goto treated Nyagumbo as a youthful first offender, Mrs Ndiraya could have none of it and said the accused had committed a serious offence and therefore should not expect leniency from the court.
“You will serve an effective three months in prison and that should serve you as a reminder to never stay on the other side of the law,” said Mrs Ndiraya.
The court heard that Nyagumbo’s father came across the 2kg mbanje in his son’s bedroom and alerted police at Ruda Police Station who came and arrested him.
Asked why he had the dangerous drug when he had no permit or licence, he told the court that he did not know that it was an offence to be in possession of such drugs.
“I was not aware that it was unlawful Your Worship, please be lenient with me,” pleaded Nyagumbo.
Online Reporter