Plumtree Thieves Jailed for Stealing Donkeys to Run Illegal Transport Business
PLUMTREE – Two men, Abednicho Ncube (34) and Mgcini Sibanda (18), have been sentenced to two years in prison for stealing four donkeys from 76-year-old Plumtree villager, Paul Ncube.
Initially sentenced to three years, the duo will serve two years, with one year suspended for good behavior.
The thieves claimed they had taken the animals to use them for transporting firewood and bricks, but the court dismissed their justification.
The theft occurred on March 11 when Ncube let his donkeys out to graze near his homestead. Later, he discovered they were missing.
After receiving a tip-off that the suspects had been seen leading the animals toward another village, he pursued them, successfully apprehended them, and filed a police report, which led to their arrest.
During proceedings at Plumtree Magistrates’ Court, Magistrate Joshua Nembaware heard the case.
Prosecutor Selestine Madziwa outlined that the accused had deliberately taken the donkeys with the intention of using them for transport purposes.
In mitigation, the men argued that they had no intent to permanently deprive Ncube of his animals.
However, the court rejected their justification, sentencing both to two years of actual imprisonment, with one year suspended for good behavior.
As highlighted by Bulawayo24.com, stock theft continues to be a pressing concern in Zimbabwe’s rural areas, affecting farmers who depend on their animals for daily transport and farming activities.
Ncube expressed relief at recovering his donkeys, acknowledging their crucial role in his livelihood.
The conviction reinforces the strict stance against stock theft, serving as a warning to offenders.
