DIANA NSOFWA writes
@SunZambian
A 16-year-old juvenile of Lusaka’s Zingalume Compound who was arrested for being in possession of about 30 grams of dagga has promised never to touch the drug again by concentrating on his education.
The juvenile made the promise before Lusaka Magistrate Rachael Mwansa Statachi after Social welfare officer Inutu Sinjambi, 32, of Foxdale told the court that the juvenile was remorseful and promised to never to be in possession of such drugs.
The boy admitted being in possession of 22.9 grammes of marijuana, on January 9
“Jail is not a nice place and I want to concentrate on my education and help my parents, conditions in prison are rough and hostile” the boy told the court.
He also blamed himself for joining bad company and he further apologized to his parents and promised that he would be good person from now onwards.
In pleading for leniency, the juvenile said he had now gotten closer to God and there was no looking back.
“You are entitled to my leniency and considering the fact that this case comes with 25 years’ imprisonment but henceforth you will undergo counselling and you will be accompanied by your father” said Magistrate Statachi.
The drugs should be destroyed under supervision of the court clerk.
In a related case, five men pleaded guilty to being in possession of 0.8 grammes of marijuana on January 28.
Austin Banda, Steven Mwansa, 35, Sims Phiri, 27, Lloyd Mwenya, 41, and Austin Mwape, admitted being in possessing of the drug before Magistrate Statachi.
They claimed that they used the drugs to help work well and concentrate on their jobs.
The matter comes up on February 8 for continued hearing and the men were remanded in custody.
