A 22-year-old man, Limbani Katuli, has been fined K2.2 million or faces a five years imprisonment with hard labour for stealing a motorcycle in Thyolo district.

Katuli was found guilty of theft after being caught with the stolen Lifan motorcycle, which belonged to 55-year-old George Mandala.

Mandala had left the motorcycle parked near his farm, and it was later spotted being ridden by Katuli.

"The convict's actions were unacceptable, and a stiff punishment was necessary to deter other would-be offenders," State Prosecutor Sub Inspector Annie Kamwendo told Midima Magistrate Court.

In mitigation, Katuli asked for leniency, stating he was a first-time offender.

However, Magistrate Patricia Mtawali concurred with the State, saying the fine would serve as a deterrent.