Two security guards found themselves behind bars after being convicted of stealing a hefty sum of US$53,000 from the aftermath of a robbery at Quest Financial Services.
Cornelius Muchikange and Nesbert Kachungwe, who had initially pleaded guilty to the crime, faced sentencing yesterday, resulting in an effective 24-month imprisonment.
Before Magistrate Ethel Chichera, Muchikange and Kachungwe confessed to their wrongdoing, prompting a verdict that included a 48-month prison term, with six months suspended provided they avoid any further offenses involving theft or dishonesty over the next five years.
Additionally, eighteen months of their sentence were suspended on the condition that they collectively repay Quest Financial Services a sum of US$18,650.
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The pair had been on duty as part of the response team during the robbery at Quest Financial Services, during which a staggering US$710,000 was stolen.
Upon the criminals’ escape, which involved leaving behind various tools and dropped cash, Muchikange and Kachungwe, stationed at the front of the premises, stumbled upon a torn paper bag containing approximately US$53,000.
Acting swiftly, they seized the money and divided it amongst themselves. However, their ill-gotten gains did not go unnoticed for long.
Detectives from CID Homicide Harare received a tip-off indicating the involvement of the guards in the theft of the cash discarded by the fleeing robbers.
In court, the prosecution, represented by Zebediah Bofu, emphasized the gravity of the offense, resulting in the sentencing of Muchikange and Kachungwe to imprisonment.