Crimes and Courts Correspondent
Nine men from Fort Rixon have been charged with nine counts of stock theft involving 34 cattle that they allegedly slaughtered and sold.
The accused appeared before the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court, where they all pleaded not guilty to the charges and were remanded in custody until December 3, 2024.
The accused individuals are:
- Ishmael Sibanda (31)
- Justin Zijena (45)
- Josphat Makuvaza (48)
- Piraishe Mandende (35)
- Peter Tiziri (44)
- Trust Ndlovu (34)
- Justice Zhou (35)
- Collinmore Kudakwashe (36)
- Sabelo Moyo (45)
The State alleges that the group was involved in a series of cattle thefts, with specific incidents reported:
- On June 14, Kudakwashe Shoko lost six cattle, four of which were slaughtered.
- Additional thefts occurred on June 30, July 21, July 30, and October 5, involving various victims and a total of several cattle being stolen and slaughtered.
In their defense, the accused provided various explanations:
- Sibanda claimed he was a legitimate cattle buyer and had police clearance to trade.
- Zijena stated he purchased cattle from Sibanda, which had clearance letters.
- Moyo mentioned he only witnessed Sibanda bringing five cows.
- Other defendants claimed they did not know Sibanda at all.
The case highlights ongoing issues with cattle theft in the region, and the court proceedings will continue as the accused await their next hearing.
The situation underscores the complexities of livestock trading and the legal implications surrounding it.
Zim GBC News©2024