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Thandeka Moyo Court Reporter
A BULAWAYO man was yesterday arraigned for an armed robbery allegedly committed in 2008.

Hezekiel Sibanda of Entumbane suburb allegedly robbed Ben Mambayo, 53, from Glengary Crescent of a televison set, two cellphones, groceries and a blanket.

Sibanda, together with an accomplice, only identified as Collen in court and who is still at large, allegedly connived to rob Mambayo at gunpoint.

Sibanda appeared before regional magistrate Mark Dzira facing armed robbery charges and pleaded not guilty, saying he was only hired to carry the stolen goods and sold them when the owner failed to pay for transport.

His trial continues today where he will deliver his defence through Byron Sengweni of Mcijo Dube and Partners.

Prosecuting Tinashe Dzipe alleges that on March 3, 2008, at around 1AM, Sibanda in common purpose with Collen, hatched a plan to rob Mambayo.

“Collen broke into Ben Mambayo’s house while armed with a pistol. He used threats of violence so as to induce him and his wife to submit to the taking of their property. He then ransacked the house and took a TV set, two cellphones, various items of clothing and groceries,” said Dzipe.

“While in the house, Collen phoned Sibanda on his cellphone for them to meet at a pre-arranged spot for the purposes of ferrying the stolen property. Sibanda supplied transport to ferry the stolen property using his vehicle.”

Sibanda reportedly led police to recover the blanket at his place of residence. Police later discovered that Sibanda had sold the TV set and the two cellphones.