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MBABANE - Normally, thugs break-into shops with intent to steal and theft, however, a 40-year-old man of Motshane used a different strategy to steal at Smile Supermarket.
Information gathered was to the effect that Mxolisi ‘Machildren’ Shongwe entered the shop as a customer and allegedly hid under the shelves.
It is said that Shongwe remained under the shelves without being noticed until the shop was closed.
Upon noting that everyone had left the shop, it is alleged that Shongwe searched around and discovered money amounting to E5 000. It has been gathered that he then allegedly stole different brands of cigarettes, screw driver and a padlock, before leaving the shop through a small window he allegedly opened from the inside.
Charged
When appearing at the Mbabane Magistrates Court, also charged with housebreaking with intent to steal and theft, the Crown applied that he be remanded back in custody until May 29, 2023 for trial. The Crown submitted that it was not opposed to bail should Shongwe apply for it.
The accused applied that the matter be dealt with and finalised so that he could make a plan to pay the fine. He admitted having committed the offence, stating he was remorseful for his actions. However, the Crown responded that it was not ready to proceed with the fresh matter. It then applied for a sooner date for trial.
Shongwe then applied for bail, stating he had to take his children to school since he was a single parent.
Conditions
Mbabane Magistrate Lenhle Zulu granted him bail fixed at E2 000 on condition he does not commit a similar offence while out on bail. Shongwe was also warned against interfering with the Crown witnesses. He was warned to attend all remand hearings whenever ordered to do so. His trial date was set for May 29, 2023.
Meanwhile, in the same court, Majahonkhe Gane Dlamini (33) of Siphocosini appeared charged with theft of a sheep valued at E1500, which was in the lawful possession of Siphamandla Ndlamlenze.
The Crown also applied that Dlamini be remanded back in custody until May 29, for trial. He was granted bail fixed at E500 on condition that he did not interfere with the Crown witnesses while out on bail. Dlamini was also warned to attend all remands and hearings whenever ordered to do so.
Edwardo Chauque (28) of Mozambique was fined E1 500 for stealing a drilling machine from his employer at Malunge Township in Mbabane.