A 19 year old man has been sentenced to 6 years in prison for stealing money amounting to K530,000 and items; Bluetooth speaker, itel phone, baby bag and a health passport book.

Sub Inspector Richard Mwakayoka Kaponda, Ntchisi Police Public Relations Officer said the convict was answering to burglary and theft charges under the the First Grade Magistrate Court in Ntchisi district.

Kaponda said the convict, Awali Simon who hails from Michongwe village, Traditional Authority Chikowi in Zomba district was sentenced by the court on Friday.

“The state prosecutor, Sub Inspector Patrick Phambana, told the court that the convict broke intothe house of Henry Chabwera at Kachulu village, in the area of Traditional Authority Kalumo in Ntchisi district during the night of January, 16-17, 2020.

The complaint realised early in the morning, that the door of his house was wide open and the following items got stolen; Baby bag, Health passport book, Bluetooth speaker, Itel phone and money amounting to K530,000.00.” explained Kaponda

Ntchisi Police PRO then stated that the convict was arrested after police inquiry though the convict denied charges of burglary and theft which is contrary to section 309(2) of the penal code.

“This prompted the state to parade four witnesses against Simon and he was found guilty.” Said Kaponda

He said while the convict pleaded for leniency during mitigation, the state prosecutor Phambana, asked for a stiffer sentence because such serious cases are on the increase in the district.”

Passing his sentence, Ntchisi First Grade Magistrate, Dorothy Kaluwa concurred with the state and sentenced Awali Simon to 6-years imprisonment with hard labour.” Said Kaponda