By Takudziridzwa Nyama
Three Masvingo men have been handed lengthy prison sentences for a series of violent robberies that terrorized the Victoria Range area of Masvingo earlier this month. They were convicted and sentenced by Masvingo Magistrate Court.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe states that Vusumuzi Bhebhe aged 20, Yasin Joseph aged 21 and Never Simbakurasha were facing 19 charges,including robbery, attempted murder and theft.
The crimes occurred between January 9th and 15th, during which the trio targeted multiple victims.
They were armed with machetes, iron bars, and catapults, when they robbed individuals of their phones, cash, electronics, and even a vehicle.
The court handed down 95 years imprisonment to Vusumuzi Bhebhe, with 20 years suspended for five years resulting in an effective 75 year sentence ,Yasin Joseph 125 years imprisonment, with 50 years suspended for five years, resulting in an effective 75-year sentence and Never Simbakurasha 125 years imprisonment, with 50 years suspended for five years, resulting in an effective 75-year sentence.
The lengthy sentences reflect the severity of the crimes and serve as a strong deterrent to potential offenders.