Shumirai Zhou
ZVISHAVANE – Moses and Mathius Sibanda of B Mine, Mberengwa were fined US$150 by Zvishavane Magistrate Archie Wochiunga after they pleaded guilty to charges of trespassing.
The two were identified as related when they appeared in court.
Appearing for the State, Tinashe Maponde told the court that on October 18, 2017 at around 1400 hrs, the accused unlawfully entered Way Broke Mine with the intention of mining.
They were caught upon entry and the complainant, Aaron Mutetwa reported the matter to the police leading to their arrest.
The accused said they knew it was illegal to get into the mining area without the approval of authorities but had no option since they were doing it for survival.
They were sentenced to 30 days imprisonment which was wholly suspended on condition they pay a fine of US$150 on or before November 15, 2017.