Balaka Senior Resident Magistrate Joshua Nkhono has set July 18, 2024, as the date to deliver the sentence for Lilian Matako and Ishmael Chitete who have pleaded guilty to a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
Zuberi Chitete, however, has pleaded not guilty. His case has been adjourned to July 15, 2024, for further hearing and for the state to present its witnesses.
Balaka Police publicist, Gladson M’bumpha, noted that the case was delayed because Zuberi Chitete needed to go to Balaka District Hospital for age assessment, which later confirmed he is between 18 and 24 years old.
Additionally, the court charge sheet was amended from acts intended to cause grievous harm to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, which the court accepted.
By Alufeyo Liyaya
