A retailer in Gwanda has been arrested and fined after she opened her business in violation of lockdown regulations announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the end of March.
Preceptous Amy Ngubo (31), who runs Thandabantu Store at Mtshabezi turn-off, sold beer to patrons who were later involved in a fight resulting in the death of a man.
Ngubo pleaded guilty to the two charges namely, opening a business establishment during a lockdown, and operating a shop business without a licence when she appeared before Gwanda magistrate, Nomagugu Sibanda.
She was fined $4 800 or sentenced to six months imprisonment in case of default for the first count.
For the second count, Ngubo was ordered to pay a $500 fine or sentenced to 60 days imprisonment in case of default.
The magistrate said in passing sentence, she had considered that Ngubo was a female first offender and had a minor child. She said:
In passing my sentence, I considered that you are a female first offender. You are also a mother who has a minor child.
The court didn’t consider a custodial sentence as it will be too harsh. The court is encouraged to give first offenders an opportunity to repent while outside prison. You are also a caregiver and your imprisonment might affect the life of the child.
The court has considered a fine and suspended sentenced as an appropriate sentence which will guard your behaviour in the future.