In a notable case of stock th3ft, 19-year-old Brighton Mudewu from Arda Village, Triangle, was brought before the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court to face serious charges.
On the evening of November 3, 2024, the complainant secured his cattle in a kraal before heading home, unaware of the impending crime.
Under the cover of darkness, Mudewu reportedly entered the property, unpenned the kraal, and successfully made off with nine cattle without being detected.
The following morning, the complainant was devastated to discover his livestock had vanished, launching an immediate search for the missing animals.
Later that day, at approximately 9:00 AM, he received a tip-off from a community informant revealing that his cattle had been located at Gwerima, with Mudewu attempting to sell them.
Acting swiftly, community members devised a plan, with one individual posing as a potential buyer to confront Mudewu.
This clever ruse led to the apprehension of the accused, who was then taken into custody by local authorities.
The total value of the stolen cattle was estimated at USD 2,500, but fortunately, all of the livestock was recovered unharmed.
Following a thorough legal process, Mudewu was sentenced to nine years in prison for his crime.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM