Joy as 43 inmates benefit from Presidential amnesty
Crime Reporter
There were scenes of joy at the Beitbridge correctional facility when 43 inmates were released under the presidential amnesty today
Among those released was one woman and 42 men who were serving mostly for lighter offences like poaching and violating the protected areas act and a few for thefts.
Acting head at the Beitbridge correctional facility, chief correctional officer Orwell Zimondi said the inmates were released after undergoing a thorough vetting process.
He said they had taken n due diligence to ensure they released those who qualified for the amnesty as set by the guidelines.
“I am grateful to President Mnangagwa for giving me and some of my collages a second chance in life. I learnt a lot during my time at this facility and will apply some of the life skills when I get home,” said Welcome Moyo.
Another inmate, who preferred anonymity said he was looking forward to seeing his children and that he was now a changed man.
“I was arrested for theft and I am happy for this gesture from the Head of State, I will lead a better life now,” he said.
A total of 4270 inmates were today released from prison under the Presidential amnesty.
The amnesty was granted to various categories of prisoners including those who have served at least three-quarters of their sentence, or one tenth if over the age of 60.
Violent criminals as well as those serving time for robbery, treason and public order and security offences were excluded.
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