Three farmers from Mwanachingwala in Zambia, identified as Bweza Milambo, Choonde Mwanamulalu, and Oswel Chiwala, have been sentenced to imprisonment for stock theft, sparking celebrations among local residents.

The Mazabuka Magistrate Court delivered the verdict on Wednesday afternoon, with Senior Resident Magistrate Edward Chisanga sentencing Milambo and Chiwala to five years of imprisonment with hard labor on each count, while Mwanamulalu, a repeat offender, received seven years on each count. However, all sentences will run concurrently.

Following the sentencing, a large crowd gathered outside the courthouse, cheering as the trio was transported to the Mazabuka Correctional Facility in a Zambia Police vehicle. Some residents even took to the streets in excitement over the conviction.

The court heard that the trio, along with an unidentified accomplice, stole three cows valued at K15,000 from Kenny Matobo between July 16 and 17, 2024. They were also found guilty of stealing ten herds of cattle worth K120,000 from Dr. Chikumbe. In a separate charge, Mwanamulalu and Chiwala were convicted of stealing two cows valued at K18,000, belonging to Winter Lisul.

The packed courtroom saw some people sitting on the floor while others peered through windows to witness the proceedings. Magistrate Chisanga emphasized that the sentencing aimed to serve as a strong deterrent against livestock theft, a persistent issue in the region.

Authorities have since urged farmers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to curb cattle rustling in Mazabuka and surrounding areas.