Former University Student Allegedly Breaks Into School Library, Steals 16 Computers

• A 30-year-old man named Chisenga is in court for allegedly stealing computers from his former university's library
• The University of Zambia alumnus accessed the library after gaining access to a set of keys from the institution
• Detective Constable Rosa Chulu from Chelstone Police Station testified before Magistrate Mutinta Mwenya, recounting the case's events

Police officers have filed charges against a 30-year-old former university student over allegations of stealing 16 computers from his alma mater.

The student named Chisenga is accused of breaking into the University of Zambia building with the intent to commit a felony.

Stolen equipment valued at KSh 415k

According to Mwebantu, the 16 machines plus accessories stolen from the computer library are valued at K68,000 (KSh 415,000).

Detective Constable Rosa Chulu from Chelstone Police Station testified before Magistrate Mutinta Mwenya, recounting the case's events.

Chulu told the court that the Chelston Police Station received a report from the campus that the machines from its School of Agriculture Sciences were missing.

"When the head of the department opened the same room, it was discovered that everything was intact apart from the 16 computers," explained Ms Chulu.

No break-ins

Interestingly, there were no signs of a physical break-in as the responsible person entered the computer laboratory without force.

"We only found empty computer desks adjacent to the wall. Even computer accessories were stolen," Chulu added.

Further investigation revealed that the person responsible for the theft had access to keys to the computer room, with the head of the department confirming that one key was missing.

Since students were required to log in to a book before obtaining the key, it was discovered that Chisenga had collected the key to the premises but never returned it.

Suspect maintains he didn't steal

Attempts to contact Chisenga proved futile as his phone was switched off. However, later that day, he was located.

"When queried, the accused expressed ignorance about the missing computers but later disclosed to police officers that he knew where the electronics were," Chulu continued.

According to Chisenga, he was involved in a project with a non-governmental organisation (NGO) and insisted he did not steal the computers.

The suspect eventually led the police to a hostel where the 15 computers were found covered on a bunk bed.

Police officers rob college student

Elsewhere, police officers Benson Kitheka Mutisya and Kennedy Muriuki Gathathu were arrested alongside two other accomplices.

They had allegedly robbed Robinson Mogaka and his friend Abdulrahman Juma of a total of KSh KSh 696,632 after forcing them to fuel their vehicle.

The officers attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kamukunji allegedly returned to rob Juma again but found the police waiting.