Talent Hanyani, a 31-year-old resident of Mahachi village, was recently sentenced to 10 years in prison after being found guilty of two counts of stock th3ft.
The offenses occurred between November 8 and November 11, 2024, when Hanyani unlawfully took a total of five cattle belonging to two separate complainants.
On November 8, the complainant released his four cattle into grazing land, unaware that Hanyani was plotting to steal.
Just days later, on November 11, Hanyani was spotted in the grazing area, where he stole three of the first complainant’s cattle and two from another victim.
Villagers quickly noticed the theft, as Hanyani was seen driving the animals away from the grazing lands.
Curious and concerned, the villagers approached him to request proof of ownership, including the necessary animal movement permit and police clearance.
However, Hanyani was unable to provide any of the required documentation, prompting the villagers to take action against him.
They detained Hanyani and swiftly contacted the local police, who arrived to arrest him.
As a result of the prompt intervention by the community, the stolen cattle were recovered, and both complainants were notified.
They subsequently visited the location where the animals were detained and identified their property without hesitation.
The court proceedings revealed the significant financial impact of the theft, with the collective value of the stolen cattle estimated at ZAR 36,500.
Considering the gravity of the offense and the need for deterrence against such criminal activities, the presiding magistrate handed down a harsh sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment for Hanyani.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
