CHURCH THIEF JAILED 6 YEARS

ENOCK KADEMAUNGA writes

@SunZambian

A 24 YEAR OLD man of Kanyama Township has been jailed for six years imprisonment with hard labour of breaking into Deeper Life Church and stealing seven mattresses and carpets among other items.

David Lombe admitted two counts of breaking into a building and theft.

In the first count it is alleged that Lombe on August 5 broke into the Church premises and stole a plasma Television, seven mattresses and two carpets altogether valued at K1, 214.

In count two, it is alleged that on August 11, Lombe broke and entered into the same church and stole three curtains, key board and one bicycle altogether valued at K10, 859, the property of Deeper Life church.

Facts before court are that on August 5, in the night, Lombe climbed the boundary wall of the Church to gain entry into the premises.

There were two security guards manning the premises at the time but they did not hear him go in.

Lombe gained entry into the Church through a window and stole the property mentioned above But as he was jumping out of the wall fence, he was seen by a passerby who later apprehended him with the stolen items.

Lombe was taken to Kabwata police station where a detective constable Habeenzu took up the matter and launched investigations.

After interrogation, Lombe led the police to Misisi compound where he sold the mattresses at K50 each.

At this point chief resident magistrate, Lameck Mwale, expressed dismay at Lombe’s actions.

“The convict is entitled to leniency but the offence is rampant especially that it was committed at a place of worship. The place of worship must be respected,” he said.

He then sentenced Lombe to 36 months imprisonment in each count and the sentences will run consecutively.