A MECHANIC of Lusaka’s Kabwata area has appeared in the Magistrates’ court for allegedly burning to death a man suspected to have stolen his motor vehicle’s side mirrors.

Richard Maluti, 37, is charged with one count of murder contrary to Section 200 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

It is alleged that Maluti on April 30 2019, in Lusaka, did murder Derrick Simwase, 38. It is further alleged that Simwase allegedly attempted to steal a side mirror of a Mazda vehicle belonging to Maluti.

The suspect appeared before Magistrate Mwandu Sakala for explanation of charge. Maluti will continue to appear for a mention awaiting instructions from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) to commit the matter to the High Court.

According to Police deputy spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, the incident occurred on April 28, 2019 around 06:30 hours.

It is believed that Simwase was later taken to Clans Night Club by Maluti where he was set him ablaze after pouring petrol over him.

Mr Hamoonga confirmed that Simwase was admitted to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) around 07:30 hours the same day and died later around 13:30 hours.

“The alleged theft occurred on April 28, 2019 at about 06:30 hours at the residence of Mr Maluti who later drove to Clan’s Night Club where the deceased was alleged to have been set ablaze after pouring petrol over him,” he said.