Man arrested for stealing gold from employer

Zim Now Writer

A 44-year-old man has been sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment for stealing gold from his employer.

The accused was arraigned before the Norton Magistrates’ Courts on two counts of theft.

The accused is employed by Kennedy Moyo, 44, the complainant, at Siegnuery Mine in Saruwe.

It is alleged that on March 4, 2024, the accused person took 26 grammes of processed gold from the mine and sold it to a gold buyer in Chegutu.

He did not remit the proceeds of the sale to the complainant.

The National Prosecuting Authority said the incident came to light on March 29 when the accused person handed over US$405 to the complainant, claiming it was from the sale of gold.

“After consulting the supervisors, the complainant discovered that the accused person had misrepresented to the supervisors that he had given the proceeds of the gold sale to the complainant on March 4.

“The complainant reported the matter to the police, leading to his arrest.

“Police investigations revealed that the accused had also committed another offence where he sold 75 grammes of gold in Chegutu for US$2 464 and remitted US$1 540 and withheld US$924.

“He used the money for personal purchases, including a tombstone and a motorcycle,” the NPA said.

The accused was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment. Of this sentence, eight months were suspended for five years on the condition of good behaviour.

A further four months were suspended on condition that he pays restitution in full.

Meanwhile, two men, Tendai Siakachinja, 30, and Chenai Makuwerere, 37, were brought before the Karoi Magistrates’ Courts facing charges of prospecting for gold without a licence.

The two were arrested on March 24, 2024 along Ume River where they were unlawfully prospecting for gold.

They pleaded guilty and were given the mandatory sentence of two years’ imprisonment.