By Burnett Munthali

The Blantyre Principal Resident Magistrate’s Court has sentenced a 28-year-old man, Evance Junior Banda, to seven years imprisonment with hard labour for the theft of a motor vehicle.

The sentencing follows an incident in which Banda stole a car from the premises of a church during a service, an act that shocked both the congregation and the surrounding community.

According to State Prosecutor Martin Thulu, the crime took place on 16 March 2025 at the Fountain of Victory Church located in Soche Central, a quiet suburb of Blantyre.

On the day in question, Banda reportedly drove off in a Toyota Carina Ti that had been parked at the church’s designated parking area while the owner was attending the service.

This brazen theft not only disrupted the peace of a religious gathering but also raised concerns over the increasing trend of motor vehicle theft in public spaces.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Banda’s freedom was short-lived, as he was apprehended later the same evening in the neighbouring district of Thyolo.

Police gave chase after receiving a report about the stolen vehicle and successfully traced Banda’s movement through local intelligence.

In an attempt to escape from law enforcement officers, Banda drove the stolen vehicle at high speed along unpaved and winding roads.

However, he lost control of the vehicle during the pursuit, resulting in a crash that ultimately led to his arrest.

Upon appearing in court, Banda pleaded guilty to the charge of motor vehicle theft and asked for the court’s leniency.

He informed the court that he is the sole breadwinner for his family and claimed that desperation had driven him to commit the crime.

Despite his plea, Principal Resident Magistrate Lawrence Mchilima was unmoved and ruled in favour of the state’s submission for a custodial sentence.

Magistrate Mchilima emphasized that the gravity of the offence, particularly its execution within a place of worship, warranted a stern punishment to serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders.

He also noted that the protection of property, especially in spaces considered safe and sacred, must be upheld by the justice system.

As a result, Banda was handed a sentence of seven years imprisonment with hard labour, a decision that has been welcomed by law enforcement authorities and members of the public alike.

The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in safeguarding vehicles in both public and private spaces, and the importance of community vigilance.