Loide Jason

A senior police officer, who heads the finance directorate of the Namibian Police, Waldheim Nghikongwa, made his first court appearance in the Katutura Magistrate’s Court on Monday on charges of culpable homicide, driving under the influence of alcohol and reckless or negligent driving.

He was granted bail of N$4 000, and the matter was remanded to 6 December 2022, pending laboratory results. Nghikongwa was arrested on Saturday at about 23h00 while operating his private vehicle, a Toyota Hilux pickup, on Sam Nujoma Drive, while allegedly under the influence of intoxicating liquor.

According to the crime report, shared by Khomas police spokesperson Silas Shipandeni, Nghikongwa’s car reportedly bumped a female pedestrian, who was declared dead upon the arrival of the paramedic at the scene.

The senior police officer allegedly tested for alcohol consumption at 0.79 mg per litre, which is beyond the legal limit. He was, therefore, arrested. Khomas crime investigations coordinator Chrispin Mubebo confirmed Nghikongwa is the head of finance in the police.

He, however, referred other related queries to police spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi, who advised the journalist to focus on the offence committed, instead of querrying about the commissioner’s profession.

The commisioner appeared before magistrate Dawid Mukuyu, who informed him he has the right to acquire legal representation. He further reminded him his right to legal representation should be exercised reasonably.

“Take note that your right to legal representation should be exercised within the bounds of reasonableness – and thus, if you fail to obtain legal representation within a reasonable time and due to your fault, the court may exercise its discretion and proceed with this matter without your legal representative,” said Mukuyu. Prosecutor Tatelo Cuthbert Lusepani represented the State.

- ljason@nepc.com.na