Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura
TWO Bulawayo teenagers who allegedly stole a vehicle from their workplace, going on a joyride and later being involved in an accident that claimed the life of Zimpapers driver, Silas Bhunu, will appear in court on Wednesday.
Bhunu was riding a motorbike when he was hit while on duty delivering newspapers.
Melusi Nkomo (19) of Nketa 6 and Shelton Dube (19) of Nkulumane were convicted on their own plea of guilty to a charge of unauthorised borrowing or use of property by Western Commonage magistrate Mr Archie Wochiwunga.
They were remanded in custody to Friday for sentencing. However, Nkomo will appear on August 21 separately for a culpable homicide charge in connection with Bhunu’s death.
The prosecutor, Ms Audrey Kufandikanwe, told the court that the incident happened on August 2.
“On that day, complainant Washington Moyo (32) was at his workplace in Kelvin North industrial area when a client brought in a white GD6 Toyota Hilux for repairs. After finishing work around 6PM, Moyo parked the vehicle inside the company yard and went home,” said Ms Kufandikanwe.
The court heard that later that evening, Nkomo and Dube, who are also employed at the same company, returned after hours, took the vehicle without Moyo’s consent, and drove into the city.
Their unauthorised joyride ended in tragedy when they were involved in an accident, killing one person and leaving the vehicle extensively damaged. Investigations later confirmed the pair had taken the vehicle without permission.
A report was made to the police leading to their arrest.
Bongani Ndlovu