Pastor jailed with hard labour for swindling people

A PASTOR has been sentenced to three years imprisonment with hard labour for swindling people by pretending that he would provide free scholarships to study in Russia.

Lusaka Magistrate Judith Chiyayika said she had to sentence David Katuta, 37, of Libala South to deter would be offenders

It is alleged that in February 2020, Katuta, with intent to defraud, obtained K6, 540 from Ms Deborah Mwanjeleke by falsely pretending that he would provide free scholarships to study in Russia when in fact not.

In the second count, it is alleged that in the same month and year, Katuta, with intent to defraud, obtained K20, 660 from Mr Isaac Mumba by pretending that he would provide free scholarships to study in Russia when in fact not.

It is alleged in the third count that in the same year and month, Katuta, with intent to defraud, obtained K28, 000 from Mutaja Mtonga by falsely pretending that he would provide free scholarships to study in Russia when in fact not.

In the fourth count, it is alleged that in August 2020, Katuta, with intent to defraud, obtained K19, 500 from Andphart Zulu Mtonga by falsely pretending that he would provide free scholarships to study in Russia when in fact not.

In the fifth count, it is alleged that in November the same year, Katuta, with intent to defraud, obtained K7, 500 from Ms Philemon Mumbiluma by pretending that he would provide free scholarships to study in Russia when in fact not.

She said after paying K6, 540, Katuta, who also claimed to be working for the Ministry of Education, informed her that she would not travel to Russia due to coronavirus restrictions.