Bethel Church Scandal: Bulawayo Woman Arrested for Stealing Church Money
A 24-year-old woman from Bulawayo’s Cowdray Park suburb has been arrested after stealing money from the Bethel Church, where she is a member.
Bridget Chiedza admitted in court to stealing US$118 and R431 from the church’s coffers, claiming financial desperation due to her mother’s illness.
Details of the Theft and Arrest
According to B-Metro, the incident, which took place on August 4, 2024, began when Chiedza was handed US$118 and R431 by church secretary Prisca Moyo, as directed by the church pastor.
However, when the funds were requested back for accountability purposes, Chiedza reportedly disappeared and became unreachable, even blocking communication from church members.
The matter was reported to the police, leading to her eventual arrest.
Plea for Leniency Amidst Family Crisis
Appearing before Western Commonage magistrate Learnear Khumalo, Chiedza pleaded guilty to charges of theft of trust property.
She tearfully pleaded with the court for leniency, explaining the difficult circumstances that led to her actions. Facing mounting pressure to help her ailing mother in the rural areas, she admitted to making a desperate choice.
“My mother was sick in the rural areas, and I needed money for her treatment.
“That’s why I committed the offence. It was a mistake, and I wish to be given the chance to pay back the money,” she explained in her plea for leniency.
Court Issues Conditional Sentence
In light of her plea and mitigating circumstances, Chiedza was sentenced to 12 months in prison. However, the court suspended three months on the condition that she remains crime-free for five years.
An additional six months were suspended, provided she completes 210 hours of community service at Cowdray Park health services. The remaining three months were also suspended on the condition that she repays the stolen amount by November 15, 2024.
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