THE Chisamba Magistrate Court has sentenced a 29-year-old ex-convict from Mpamapamo area in Chisamba District to 18 months imprisonment with hard labour for theft.
Peter Banda appeared before Magistrate Litungi Litungi and pleaded guilty to stealing a solar panel valued at K3,000, the property of Lawrence Mutumba. The theft occurred on April 23, 2025.
Court records revealed that Banda was previously convicted of theft by servant on December 11, 2024 and was sentenced to six months imprisonment, suspended on condition that he perform seven days of community service, a requirement he failed to fulfill.
Upon his guilty plea, Magistrate Litungi convicted Banda under Section 272 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
During mitigation, Banda pleaded for leniency, explaining that he is the sole caregiver of his three siblings and two children, one of whom is under six months old, following the death of his wife last year.
In delivering judgment, Magistrate Litungi noted Banda’s status as a repeat offender and emphasized the need for a stiffer sentence despite his plea for mercy.
Banda was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment with hard labour, effective from May 13, 2025.
The court informed the convict of his right to appeal the sentence within 14 days if dissatisfied with the ruling.
(ZANIS)