Weed-selling granny handed a two-year suspended sentence
A granny arrested for peddling bhang has been handed a two-year suspended sentence by a Nyeri court.
Ms Lydia Mumbi Ndirangu, 83, was convicted on her own plea of guilty by Senior Resident Magistrate Nelly Kariuki, who observed that a custodial sentence was not suitable on account of the accused’s advanced age.
The widow was arrested by police on July 10 at Muthinga market, Tetu sub-county while in possession of 268 grams of bhang valued at Sh500.
The drugs were concealed in a basket containing fruits covered with dry banana leaves.
SEVERAL WARNINGS
A probation report produced in court indicated that Ms Mumbi was for a long time suspected of peddling bhang around Muthinga and had been severally warned by the authorities.
Investigations by local leaders revealed the source of the drugs was Majengo slum in Nyeri town.
The report signed by Ms Beatrice Njoroge, a probation officer, stated that the mother of five could purchase the drugs and take to her son called Rashid, a well-known drug peddler, to supply to her clients.
The officer further stated that the community led by area assistant chief John Waruru quoted bhang as a quick source of income for Ms Mumbi’s family.
“It is unfortunate that three of her grandchildren are among many young people who are victims of bhang abuse and the illegal trade. Even after numerous warnings and subsequent arrests, the elderly woman has not learnt the impact of her actions,” the report indicated.
DEFENCE
On her part, Ms Mumbi claimed she left her basket and bucket unattended at a bus stage in Nyeri town and crossed the road to buy two loaves of bread.
On return she did not bother to check on her luggage and she learnt there was bhang inside the bucket when police officers recovered it following an inspection upon her arrival at Muthinga.
While sentencing her on Monday, the court warned her to be of good conduct and if commits any criminal offence the suspension placed on the imprisonment term will be lifted.