The Mangochi Second Grade Magistrate’s Court on August 22, 2024, convicted and sentenced Boika Sabiti, 48, to six years imprisonment with hard labor for possessing an offensive weapon.
During court proceedings, Inspector Shadreck Wisiki narrated that the convict was arrested on the night of August 19, 2024, at one of the drinking joints within the township by a patrol team following a tip from community members that he was in possession of a dangerous object hidden in a black bag.
Police found him with a steel object, approximately 60 cm long, made from sharp, pointed metals. He failed to explain his reasons for carrying it at night.
Appearing in court, the convict pleaded guilty to the charge of possession of an offensive weapon, contrary to Section 313(1)(C), which carries a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment with hard labor.
In his submission, Prosecutor Wisiki reminded the court that Sabiti’s behavior demonstrated a resistance to change and that the weapon brought fear to the community. He, therefore, requested a lengthy custodial sentence.
In mitigation, the convict asked for the court’s leniency, claiming the object was intended for killing crocodiles and not for any other harmful purpose.
Passing sentence, Second Grade Magistrate Baxter Chikalimba expressed concern that the convict had failed to benefit from the rehabilitation system.
He sentenced Sabiti to six years imprisonment with hard labor to deter other would-be offenders.
Sabiti hails from Kalonga Village, Traditional Authority Mapira, in Mangochi.
lnspector Amina Tepani Daudi
PRO- Mangochi Police Station
Cell:0999-706-525
Email:amina.tepani@police.gov.mw
Website:www.police.gov.mw