Three Jailed for Dealing in Counterfeit SA Currency

The Maseru Magistrate Court this week heard two cases involving more than M80 000 in counterfeit currency. A woman and a man were on July 28 sentenced to four years imprisonment or a fine of M8, 000.00 while another man was sentenced to six years imprisonment or a fine of M12, 000.00 after they were found guilty of possessing fake South African money.

Evidence led by prosecutor, Mr. Mohau Mahanyele showed that the counterfeit currency was in 50 and 200 South African notes. First accused Daniel Mtshali, a South African citizen, was found in possession of R3, 400.00, second accused Mohapi Tlali of Lithoteng, Maseru, in possession of R74, 800.00 while third accused, 'M'achaka Mosese had R3, 100.00 in her possession.

Mtshali and Mosese were both sentenced to four years imprisonment or a fine of M8, 000.00 as evidence showed they obtained the money from Tlali, while the latter got six years imprisonment or an alternative fine of M12, 000.

Passing judgement, magistrate Mrs. 'M'afelile Ralebese said the sentence would serve as a deterrent to the accused and prospective criminals not to commit a similar offence in future. She described the offence as one of the more serious ones in the country and which if not combated, would have a negative impact on the economy of the country.

The magistrate said however that she had taken into consideration among other mitigating factors, that the accused pleaded guilty to the charge, thus showing remorse. The amount of counterfeit currency was also considered.

29 July 2004