Decide Nhendo
Masvingo – A 43-year-old woman, Jane Muchenje from Mucheke F, appeared before the Masvingo Magistrate court on January 18, 2024, facing a charge under the Dangerous Drug Act. She was remanded out of custody, awaiting sentencing.
Muchenje faced the court after being found in possession of bronclear syrup and mbanje at her homestead, which she claimed she did not intend to sell.
During her appearance before Magistrate Elizabeth Hanzie, Muchenje pleaded guilty to the charge, stating that the drugs did not belong to her. She explained that she received the parcel from her brother in South Africa and was instructed to send it to someone in Harare.
“I plead guilty, as the court alleges that I was found in possession of the drugs without a license. However, I received the parcel from my brother in South Africa, not knowing that it contained drugs. Also, I was supposed to send it to someone in Harare,” said Muchenje.
She also appealed for leniency, emphasizing that she is the sole provider for her three children, being a widow. Muchenje expressed concern that a custodial sentence would adversely affect her children’s well-being, as she is their only guardian.
“I have three children; the first one is 20 years old, the second is 16 years old, and the third is only six years old. If I am given a custodial sentence, my children will suffer, as I am their sole provider,” she stated.
The state, represented by Ruvimbo Makove, alleged that on December 13, 2023, agents from Masvingo Criminal Investigations Department, during a patrol in Mucheke F area, received a tip-off that Muchenje was in possession of bronclear syrup and mbanje.
Acting on the information, the agents went to Muchenje’s house, introduced themselves, and conducted a search. They found her in possession of 148 by 100 milliliters bronclear cough syrup and 1.8 kilograms of mbanje.
Subsequently, the matter was reported to Masvingo Central Police Station, leading to Muchenje’s arrest, and she was taken to Masvingo Central Police station.
