Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Lesley Chikudo, chikudolesley@gmail.com
A 42-YEAR-OLD Bulawayo woman was yesterday ordered to perform 210 hours of community service for stealing US$215 entrusted to her by a social club.
Keresia Chipindu of Rangemore, who had been responsible for managing funds for the Sikhulisiwe Burial Society, was convicted on her own plea of guilty to the theft by Western Commonage magistrate, Mrs Lenia Khumalo.
Chipindu was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment of which three months were suspended for five years on condition that she does not commit a similar offence within that period.
An additional three months were suspended on condition that Chipindu performs 210 hours of community service at Pumula High School.
The remaining six months were suspended on condition that she restitutes the full amount of US$215 to the complainant.
In passing sentence, Mrs Khumalo noted that Chipindu was a first-time offender and had pleaded guilty, saving the court time. However, she emphasised that cases involving dishonesty were on the rise and that the law must send a clear message to potential offenders.
Prosecutor, Ms Catherine Kuzu, said Chipindu was entrusted with the money by the Sikhulisiwe Burial Society, and as the society’s treasurer, she was responsible for depositing monthly contributions into the Eco Sure Funeral Plan on behalf of the members.
Between July and November 2024, Chipindu was given a total of US$215 to deposit into the funeral plan. Instead of fulfilling her duty, she converted the money to her personal use.
The theft came to light when a member of the burial society made an inquiry with Eco Sure and found out that the account was in arrears.
