The Chief Resdent Magistrate’s court in Mzuzu has convicted and sentenced Shadreck Banda 34, to 4 years imprisonment with hard labour for theft of Northern Region Water Board (NRWB) meters.

The court through police prosecutor Inspector Aubry Maganga heard that the convict on May 17, 2023 stole eleven waterboard meters valued at over K3, 069, 000 at Salisbury location in Mzuzu City

It is reported that during the night of the incident, community policing members were on their usual patrols when they came across the convict who seemed suspicious. Upon catching him they searched his bag which contained NRWB properties.

Police was tipped off about the issue and quickly rushed to arrest the convict and brought him to Mzuzu police station for further questioning.

Appearing in court, the convict pleaded guilty to the charge of theft which is contrary to section 278 of the penal code.

In his submission, police prosecutor Inspector Maganga prayed for a stiffer punishment, stating that vandalism of waterboard meters is now rampant in Mzuzu.

Passing sentence, Magistrate Paul Chiotcha accorded with the state’s submission and sentenced the convict to 4 years imprisonment with hard labour to deter the would-be offenders.

Banda comes from Mkando Village, Traditional Authority Juma in Mulanje District.