Habitual thief blames wife

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A 68-YEAR-OLD Victoria Falls habitual thief last week appeared in court for stealing a pair of trousers from clothing retail outlet Topics just a few months after being charged at the same court facing similar charges.

A 68-YEAR-OLD Victoria Falls habitual thief last week appeared in court for stealing a pair of trousers from clothing retail outlet Topics just a few months after being charged at the same court facing similar charges.

NOKUTHABA DLAMINI OWN CORRESPONDENT

Victoria Falls resident magistrate Sharon Rosemani convicted Alfred Jiyani of Chinotimba on his own plea of guilty and fined him $100 or three months in prison.

Prosecutor Listen Nare told the court that on August 25 at around 2pm, Jiyani went into Topics and took a fleeting look around to ensure the security guards were not on high alert.

He then took one khaki trousers and hid it inside his pants and covered it with his T-shirt and attempted to leave the shop.

However, a security guard Ronald Matanhire, who was watching Jiyani, intercepted him on his way out. He searched Jiyani and discovered the stolen trousers and arrested him.

Asked by the magistrate why he stole at such an advanced age, the unfazed Jiyani responded: “I wanted to sell it so that I raise money for food. My wife bewitched me, so I am possessed and I cannot control it.

“I left my rural home in Tsholotsho trying to flee from her because it has been so bad. I am physically handicapped. I cannot even plough. I rely on stealing to get food.”

But Rosemani shot back.

“This does not make sense. You were in this court a few months back facing similar charges and l convicted you. You first stole meat then Nivea lotion at TM on different occasions; if you are not careful, you will end up in prison,” Rosemani said.