The Lusaka Magistrate Court has sentenced a 33-year-old , Jesus Baelo, to six months of imprisonment with hard labour after he pleaded guilty to stealing a phone valued at K14,500.
Baelo, a resident of Chainda compound, admitted to stealing and selling the Samsung Note 20 Ultra, which belonged to Felix Maluba.
He stated that he sold the device to support his two children.
The incident occurred on December 19, 2024, at Garden House Mall.
According to court proceedings, Maluba left his phone on a store counter while purchasing a cake.
Upon realising he had left it behind, he returned to the store, but the sales assistant denied seeing it.
A review of CCTV footage revealed Baelo taking the phone.
Baelo was arrested and charged for theft
In mitigation, he pleaded for leniency, citing ill health and family responsibilities.
However, Magistrate Fines Mayambu noted the seriousness of the offence and the need to deter similar crimes.
“If you didn’t know, this offence carries a maximum sentence of five years. You should have considered your family and health before engaging in theft,” Magistrate Mayambu stated.
Considering Baelo’s status as a first-time offender who admitted to the crime, the court sentenced him to six months with hard labour, effective from the date of arrest, December 19,2024.
