An off-duty police officer who allegedly shot a civilian at Gcagcana village in the Kavango East region on Sunday has been denied bail, after making his first court appearance on a charge of attempted murder this week.
Warrant officer Jonas Kandiwapa (45) appeared before magistrate Selma Shiinga, who denied him bail due to the seriousness of the crime and to allow him to obtain legal representation.
Kandiwapa was arrested on Wednesday for attempted murder and obstructing the course of justice after he allegedly failed to report the matter for residue examination after he allegedly shot and injured Frans Ndara (35) in the lower abdomen at Ngcagcana near Rundu.
Ndara was said to have had a “small argument” with his grandmother at a cuca shop where they were drinking, when Kandiwapa approached him, asking him why he was arguing with his grandmother.
He then allegedly slapped Ndara and he fell.
Ndara’s cousin then exited the cuca shop and tried to help him, upon which Ndara realised he was shot.
Kandiwapa was yesterday told he has the right to appoint a private lawyer or apply for state legal representation.
He, however, opted to represent himself and notified the court that he would engage a private lawyer at a later stage.
Public prosecutor Michael Munika asked the court to deny the accused bail, saying the state fears for his life, and that he may be attacked by members of the public if released on bail.
Kandiwapa’s case was postponed to 7 December for further investigation.
Kavango East crime investigations coordinator deputy commissioner Bonifatius Kanyetu earlier said internal investigations into the case would continue, and the docket could be transferred to the Office of Prosecutor General for a decision.
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