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By Bindura Bureau
The quest for quick money by stealing government property turned sour for two Ministry of Health and Child Care officers based at its Bindura offices Thursday.
Richard Chiwata (39), a storeman, and Fungai Mangwadu an Environmental Health Officer at the ministry’s district office, pleaded guilty to conniving to steal mosquito nets valued at ZW$880 000.
They appeared before Bindura Magistrate Samantha Dhlamini, who remanded them in custody until March 15.
Prosecuting, Caroline Mupazvirewo alleged that on February 4, 2023, around 6pm, the duo hatched a plan to steal mosquito net bales at 261 Tumazos Road in Bindura, a facility being used as a warehouse by the ministry.
They had received information from Morgen Matani that one Svikai Bhobho from Mukumbura was looking for mosquito nets.
Blinded by the quest for ‘rich pickings’, they proceeded to the warehouse where Chikwata unlocked the door,entered and stole 6 x 50 bales of mosquito nets and loaded them into a silver Honda Fit.
Bhobho then handed over US$210-00 as payment to Mangwadu and he left.
On February 18, the two were informed that Bhobho needed more nets. Acting on the information,they proceeded to their work place, unlocked the warehouse and stole 10 x 50 bales more the following day.
They reportedly loaded them into a white Toyota Wish which Bhobho was driving before being paid US$400.
However, Bhobho was intercepted by police officers manning a roadblock who asked to search the car only to find the nets.
Bhobho then mentioned his source, leading to the duo’s arrest and recovery of the 10 bales. Nhau/Indaba
