03 Feb 2020

Magistrate Daniel Nkau of Kanye Magistrate Court has fined Ketshephaone Ditshane P10 000 for unlawful possession of 2.8 kg of dagga, failing which, he shall be imprisoned for three years.

When delivering the sentence, the magistrate said even though he had noted all that the accused person said in mitigation, there was need to apply stringent measures to deter potential offenders.

Mr Nkau said most heinous offences were committed while under the influence of dagga, hence the need to nip the trend in the bud.

The accused person was ordered to pay the fine within 30 days, while the exhibit was forfeited to the state.

The case was further set for February 20 for determination on disposal of a motor vehicle, which was used to transport the dagga.

On another matter, Magistrate Nkau sentenced 32-year-old Tumisang Kehumile of Selokolela to eight months’ imprisonment for a single count of assault common.

Even though the accused person was initially charged with rape, the offence later changed to assault common.

The magistrate said that even though the accused was a first offender, violence on women was on the rise in his jurisdiction.

He ordered that the sentence be backdated to the time the accused person was arrested and advised him of his right to appeal the sentence within 14 days.

Still before the same court, 41-year-old Kenanao Ntshekang was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for three years, on condition that he does not commit the same offence.

He had been convicted of a single count of malicious damage to property after torching a motor vehicle belonging to his girlfriend’s brother.

In addition to the suspended sentence, the accused was further ordered to pay P7 683 for vehicle damages within 30 days. ENDS