FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO-Simbarashe Majeke (22) from Rujeko C has been jailed for 12 months after failing to pay for accommodation at a local lodge where he stayed for 21 days.
Majeke appeared before Magistrate Caroline Nyoni at the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court facing charges of setting off without payment.
The court heard that Majeke, who claimed to be a freelance software developer, checked into Amazing Villages Lodge on May 18, 2026, for a 21-day stay and accumulated a bill of US$1,110.
When confronted by lodge manager Munashe Chikaka over the outstanding payment, Majeke reportedly attempted to negotiate payment in instalments but the offer was declined.
Police were called after Majeke allegedly attempted to leave the lodge without settling the bill leading to his arrest.
Magistrate Nyoni sentenced Majeke to 12 months imprisonment, three months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour while another three months were suspended on condition that he restitutes the complainant US$1,110. This leaves him with an effective six-month prison term.
Tarisai Muvengi represented the State.
