Man jailed for assaulting soldier

A 32-year-old Chitungwiza man who assaulted a soldier coming from a drinking spree accusing him of being a thief, was yesterday sentenced to an effective 14 months in prison.

Tawanda Ruzvidzo of Unit O pleaded guilty to assault charges before Chitungwiza magistrate Mr Lazarus Murendo and was sentenced to 18 months in prison.

Mr Murendo suspended four months of his sentence on condition of good behaviour.

In sentencing him, Mr Murendo took into account that Ruzvidzo's moral blameworthiness was high and that cases of assault were on the increase.

Prosecutor Mr Edmond Ndambakuwa proved that on March 22 and at around 2am, Edmore Kabike (28) stationed at KG VI was on his way home coming from a drinking spree.

The court heard that on the way, Kabike saw Ruzvidzo emerging from the dark and started following him.

On sensing danger, Kabike increased pace and later started running after seeing that Ruzvidzo was still following him.

Ruzvidzo caught up with Kabike within a short distance and grabbed his T-shirt accusing him of being a thief.

The former started kicking and punching the helpless Kabike who screamed, alerting members of the public who rushed to his rescue.

They apprehended Ruzvidzo and took him to the police.