A 26-year-old man from the Siachilaba area in Binga who broke into a neighbour’s house has been slapped with a 24-month jail term for unlawful entry and theft of property worth $300.
Milton Mudenda pleaded guilty to unlawful entry and theft charges when he appeared before the Binga resident magistrate on Friday.
The magistrate convicted and sentenced him to 24 months in jail. Four months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour. Another four months were suspended on condition he restitutes the complainant $150, equivalent to the property which was not recovered.
On August 4 this year Mudenda unlawfully entered into Lameck Mukombwe’s house in Siachilaba while the owner was away and stole 39 plates, 33 cups, 10 pairs of trousers, 15 shirts and a travelling bag, all valued at $300, before disappearing.
Mukombwe discovered the theft when he returned home and made a report to the police. Mudenda was later arrested at Mala Fishing Camp where he was already selling the loot. Only property worth $150 was recovered.
When asked why he stole the neighbour’s property, Mudenda said his wife was expecting but he had no money to prepare for the coming baby. David Never Shiku prosecuted the case.
