Gokwe Man Sentenced to 12 Months’ Jail for Robbery after Brandishing Knives at Security Guard

By Staff Reporter

A Gokwe man, aged 30, was handed an effective 12 months’ jail term after being convicted of robbery in Inyathi Magistrates’ Court. Simon Madwala was convicted of threatening to attack a security guard at Marry Allen Farm with two knives and stealing her phone.

The incident occured on the 18th February, 2025, at approximately 4:00 PM. Madwala, as per court documents, went to the female security officer when she was working and asked for the location of the driver of a tractor. When she told him that she did not know where the driver was, Madwala allegedly became aggressive.

The court heard that Madwala subsequently pulled out two knives and demanded the security guard’s mobile phone, which was worth US$150. After the experience, the complainant reported the incident to her superiors straight away. Farmworkers at Marry Allen Farm quickly apprehended Madwala, resulting in his arrest and subsequent police inquiry. The stolen mobile phone was recovered successfully.

Madwala was given an 18-month prison sentence, with 6 months suspended for 5 years on good behavior. Madwala will remain in prison for 12 months, effectively.

The prompt arrest of Madwala by the farmworkers and the recovery of the stolen property were brought to light during the trial. The case served as a reminder of vigilance and the impact of violent criminality in society.