By LUCY PHIRI
THE Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has found a Patriotic front cadre Angel Chipasha with a case to answer in a case he is accused of breaking into former president Edgar Lungu’s house and stealing television sets valued at over K60, 000.
When the matter came up before magistrate Crispin Hampungani to rule on a case or no case to answer, he found Chipasha guilty and put him on his defence.
He ruled that the state prosecution proved their case beyond reasonable doubts through its witnesses.
In this matter, Chipasha pleaded not guilty to one count of burglary and theft.
It is alleged that Chipasha, during the night of August 9, 2022 in Lusaka, did break and enter into the dwelling house of Edgar Chagwa Lungu with intent to steal therein and did steal two television sets altogether valued at K66, 000, the property of Shimbinzyani Chavula.
Previously, a police officer assigned to guard the residence of former president Edgar Lungu testified that there was a power out at the time the breaking-in happened.
Sergeant Mayondi Dala testified that the residence experienced power cuts twice around 01:00 hours, the time he suspects the alleged theft took place.
The witness also told the court in cross-examination that he is not aware if the house has Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras.
Magistrate Hampungani ruled that a prima facie case had been established against Chipasha, and consequently placed him on his defence.
But he informed the court through his Lawyer that he was not ready to give his defence that day.
Magistrate Hampungani then adjourned the matter to July 17, 2023, for commencement of defence.
