Two men, Willy Gunya and Maxwell Chiwaya, have been slapped with nine years and two months jail terms over arson, malicious damage and theft.

State prosecutor, Sub Inspector Kesten Chimwala told Kasinje Magistrate Court in Ntcheu that the duo joined students’ demonstrations at Khola Community Day Secondary School, located in their area.

The protests erupted following misunderstandings between the students and their teachers. They reportedly damaged, stole and set ablaze assorted items including some household property.

Appearing in court, the two pleaded not guilty to the charges levelled against them, prompting the state to parade four witnesses.

Later, they pleaded for court’s leniency, citing family obligations. But Chimwala described their offence as huge, deserving a stiffer punishment.

He argued their acts instilled fear in the teachers and led to the closure of the school, risking learners who are set to sit for Form 2 and MSCE examinations.

First Grade Magistrate Augustine Mizaya handed the duo the nine years and two months sentence; saying this should act as a lesson to some uncivilized people who are fond of vandalizing school property.