In a brazen display of criminal audacity, two individuals from Zvishavane, Zimbabwe, have been sentenced to 7 years in prison for a daring robbery. Josephat Kenias Moyo (23) and Dereck Sibanda (26) were convicted by the Zvishavane Magistrates’ Court for their involvement in a violent incident that left their victim, John Mlambo, dispossessed of his vehicle and personal belongings.
The incident unfolded on May 13th, 2024, when the accused hired Mlambo, who was driving a Toyota Funcargo, to take them from Chiraya Business Centre to the Gwemvurachena turnoff in Zvishavane. Upon reaching Gwemvurachena turnoff, the duo instructed Mlambo to stop the vehicle, at which point they assaulted him and forcibly took his car, US$40 in cash, and an Itel P36 cellphone.
The robbers then fled the scene, leaving Mlambo stranded. Fortunately, a passerby came to the victim’s aid and accompanied him to report the incident to the police. The investigation led to the arrest of the accused in Bulawayo on May 28th, 2024. Mlambo’s stolen property was recovered, with the Itel P36 cellphone found in Moyo’s possession, along with a phone line belonging to Teles Mahove.
In a swift response, the authorities were able to locate the stolen Toyota Funcargo in Chinamhora, Domboshava, where it had been hidden. The total value of the stolen items was estimated at $5,130, of which $5,090 was successfully recovered.
The Zvishavane Magistrates’ Court handed down a harsh sentence, with both Moyo and Sibanda receiving 7 years in prison. However, 1 year of their sentences was suspended for 5 years, and an additional 4 months were suspended on the condition of restitution by July 21st, 2024.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such brazen criminal acts and the unwavering commitment of the Zimbabwean authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect the safety of its citizens.
