Chegutu Man Jailed for Burning Hut Over US$2 Debt

The Chegutu Magistrates’ Court handed down a custodial sentence after finding that the offender deliberately destroyed property over a debt.

According to statement issued by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, Munyambwana Ali 36, was convicted of malicious damage to property for burning down a thatched hut at the Selous Tobacco Farm compound on 3 April 2026.

“He was sentenced to a 3 year imprisonment term. Six months were suspended for restitution and another 6 on condition of good behaviour, leaving him with an effective two years to servee” the statement said.

The court heard that Ali had a dispute with the victim at a shop over US$2. After leaving, he went to the victim’s homestead and set fire to the hut with a lighter while a neighbour watched. The blaze destroyed the hut, a work suit, safety shoes, and five kilograms of beans inside.

In response to the case, the NPAZ reiterated its position that individuals must not resort to violence or property destruction to settle personal disputes, emphasizing that legal channels exist for resolving disagreements and should be used instead.

“Community members must desist from taking the law into their own hands and follow lawful channels to resolve misunderstandings” the NPAZ said.

The case serves as a reminder that property offences carry significant prison terms under Zimbabwean law.