IN A twist of fate – of course not the Zee World telenovela most viewers are used to. An officer from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) will be welcomed by some poachers he helped in apprehending after the court slapped him with a five year sentence for the unlawful possession of elephant ivory.
After an elongated trial full of cross-examination to determine the facts, the Sesheke Subordinate Court gave Nephas Nkata and his colleague Meta Himonga who is a council police officer based in Sioma, a five year rent-free apartment.
Even though the apartment may not be comfortable, or lack enough ventilation, their stay will give them a bit of time to reflect on their decision.
Nkata and Himonga who were tasked with the duty to safeguard the environment and nature were caught doing the opposite, as they were found in possession of 18 pieces of ivory harvested from nine elephants.
The duo disregarded the 96 Kilograms weight of the ivory living up to the saying ‘sample si ilema’ However, two was arrested on May 11 last year for the offence which is contrary to the Zambia Wildlife Act No.14 of 2015.
And when their matter appeared before the court, Sesheke Subordinate Court judge found Nkata and Himonga guilty beyond all reasonable doubt.
The duo was then convicted and sentenced to five years imprisonment with hard labour.
Moses Makwaya
Kalemba November 1, 2022
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