A 34-year-old employee at Mpilo Central Hospital, Lizuba Nkosi Ngula, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for stealing mobile phones from vulnerable patients while they were undergoing treatment.
The court, presided over by Bulawayo Magistrate Ms. Nomagugu Maphosa, found Ngula guilty on three counts of theft, revealing a pattern of exploitation occurring during November 2024.
The prosecutor, Ms. Hazel Siphiwe Sithole, detailed Ngula’s opportunistic crimes, which included the theft of a Samsung Galaxy A05 valued at US$100 from patient Lucy Machingauta, as well as an Itel P36 from Martha Luwe, both admitted to the Post Natal ward.
On November 8, Ngula further stole an O King phone from 19-year-old Shamiso Ndlovu in the same ward, prompting Ndlovu to report the incident and leading to Ngula’s arrest.
The court decided to suspend three months of the prison sentence and impose a conditional requirement for Ngula to carry out 315 hours of community service instead of serving the full term behind bars.
This sentence reflects a judicial approach that prioritizes rehabilitation over incarceration while still ensuring accountability for Ngula’s actions.
Ngula, who was employed as an HIV testing counsellor through the Global Fund, took advantage of patients’ illnesses, preying on their vulnerability during a critical time in their lives.
The ruling also emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards in healthcare settings, as trust and safety are paramount for patients seeking medical assistance.
Community service at Cowdray Park Primary School will provide Ngula with an opportunity to contribute positively to society .
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