Former catholic priest denies church vehicle theft

A former Catholic priest accused of stealing a church vehicle has appeared before the Petauke Magistrate’s Court where he has denied the charge.

Simon Tembo, 42, is alleged to have stolen a Toyota Hilux registration number CAA 7255 ZM valued at K700,000 belonging to the Chipata Diocese Catholic Church in Ukwimi area of Lusangazi District.

Tembo, who is said to be a mechanic by profession, is charged with theft of a motor vehicle contrary to Sections 281(a) and 272 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

It is alleged that the offence occurred on October 30, 2025, in Lusangazi District.

When the matter came up for plea before Magistrate Misozi Banda, Tembo pleaded not guilty and immediately applied for bail.

“I plead not guilty, Your Honour, and I would like to apply for bail,” he said.

However, State Advocate Christopher Nyambe told the court that the prosecution needed to bring a witness before responding to the bail application.

“We wish to bring one witness before the court responds to the bail application, but the witness is currently in Chipata, “he said.

And Magistrate Banda later adjourned the matter to May 28, 2026, for possible commencement of trial and for the State’s response on the bail application.

The accused has since been remanded in custody pending the next court appearance.