The first grade Magistrate’s court in Balaka has sentenced a 32-year man to 6 years imprisonment with hard labour for stealing a phone and a loaf of bread valued at MK20,000.
The state prosecutor superintendent Bodwin Msukwa identified the convict as Andrew Kathumba.
Msukwa told the court that the convict robbed a lady identified as Elizabeth Tamimu of the two items.
Msukwa told the court the court that during the particular night the complainant was coming from town heading her home and upon reaching at Balaka CCAP church unknown man grabbed her by the neck and stole from her the above mentioned items.
The victim shouted for help and well-wishers came to her rescue and managed to catch the convict.
Appearing before the court, the convict pleaded not guilty to the charge of robbery.This prompted state to parade three witnesses including the victim and the accused was convicted accordingly.
In his submission,the Msukwa prayed for stiffer punishment, stating that robberies are common nowadays.
Passing judgement, first grade magistrate Phillip Chibwana concurred with the state’s submission and sentenced the convict to 6 years imprisonment with hard labour.
Andrew Kathumba hails from Kapalamula village Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka District.
