The Phalombe Magistrate’s Court has sentenced 28-year-old Rafick Stephano Benard to 14 years in prison with hard labor for his involvement in a theft case.

State Prosecutor, Sub Inspector Lawrence Kambale, told the court that on the night of November 28, 2024, Benard and his accomplices broke into the home of a businessman in Mitochi village, Traditional Authority Chiwalo in Phalombe. They stole a total of MK 7,893,000.00 in cash and various items.

Kambale added that five of the thieves were involved in the robbery, with three arrested and two others burned by angry villagers. Benard was rescued by the police, while another suspect remains under investigation.

Benard pleaded guilty to the charges and asked the court for leniency, citing that it was his first offense and he had responsibilities. However, Kambale requested a harsh sentence, noting that the crime posed a significant threat to business owners and involved a large sum of money. Of the stolen amount, only MK 1,070,000.00 was recovered.

In his ruling, First Grade Magistrate Leonard Mtosa agreed with the prosecution and sentenced Benard to 14 years in prison with hard labor, as a deterrent to others.

Benard hails from Kumpini village in Traditional Authority Mkumbira, Zomba district