The courts recently heard two separate cases involving theft and unlawful conduct, highlighting ongoing efforts to address financial and utility-related crimes in the country.
In the first case, Tawanda Prosper Zindoga (31) from Chijoko Village in Chivhu appeared before the Chinhoyi Magistrates’ Court facing theft charges. Between August 1 and September 17, 2024, Zindoga was entrusted with collecting USD 11,380 in rent from 65 tenants on behalf of his employer. However, USD 420 of the funds went unaccounted for, prompting the employer to report the matter to the police. Investigations led to the recovery of a Samsung A05 smartphone and a 32-inch television allegedly purchased using the stolen money. Police also recovered USD 220 in cash. Zindoga’s sentencing is scheduled for October 25, 2024.
In a separate matter, Kudakwashe Choga (50) was arraigned before the Mvuma Magistrates’ Court for illegally connecting electricity, in violation of the Electricity Act. Choga was found to have bypassed the electricity meter at his property between March 26 and May 2, 2024, allowing him to use power without paying for it. His actions resulted in the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) incurring a loss of 364 units of electricity, valued at ZWL 1,237.60.
Choga was sentenced to six months in prison, with four months suspended on the condition that he repays the stolen amount by November 30, 2024.
