Auleria Wakudumo
ONDANGWA – Residents of two villages in Oshikoto region have called for the full might of the law to be applied against a man accused of murdering a village headman and critically wounding another, in a shooting that has left the community shaken.
Villagers from Iikokola and Onelago gathered at the Ondangwa Magistrate’s Court from as early as 08h00 yesterday, anxiously awaiting developments in a case they say has traumatised their communities and underscored the urgent need for justice.
The accused, 59-year-old Sinkus Johannes, allegedly shot and killed Onelago village headman Sem Nepando and wounded Iikokola headman I-Ben Nashandi, who seriously sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Nashandi is recovering at Onandjokwe State Hospital.
The shooting took place on Friday at Iikokola village where Johannes had allegedly fenced off a portion of land illegally. Nashandi, Nepando and Iikokola village secretary had allegedly gone to the village to resolve the matter.
Beyond his traditional leadership role, the late Nepando was a VAT specialist at the Ministry of Finance. Nashandi is the Executive Director of the National Planning Commission. Nepando also served as deputy headman of Iikokola village, where the shooting occurred.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Juni Nashandi, twin brother of the injured headman, condemned the attack, describing it as a barbaric act against public servants performing their lawful duties.
“As a community and as citizens of this country, we strongly condemn this act. We are satisfied with the State’s opposition to bail and support the prosecution in pursuing this matter until a successful conviction is secured and a stiff maximum sentence is imposed. Justice must prevail,” he said.
Juni further urged communities nationwide to recommit to peaceful coexistence, identify triggers of violence early, and report suspicious behaviour before disputes escalate into deadly incidents.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through Iikokola and surrounding villages, with residents insisting that the case must mark a turning point in addressing violence and safeguarding those entrusted with public service.
As proceedings continue, the Iikokola community says it remains united and vigilant, calling for justice to be served without compromise.
Johannes, a resident of Iikokola village, appeared before court facing four serious charges: murder, attempted murder, discharging a firearm in a public place, and defeating or obstructing the course of justice. He allegedly hid the pistol used in the shooting in nearby bushes.
The matter was postponed to 18 June 2026 to allow for further police investigations, and Johannes was remanded in custody. The court explained his right to legal representation, and he opted for legal aid.
State prosecutor Yeukai Kangira strongly opposed bail, arguing that the matter was premature, given the seriousness of the charges. Kangira further submitted that the State fears the accused may carry out alleged threats against the surviving victim, who is still recovering in hospital.
The State also argued that Johannes is a flight risk, as he allegedly fled the scene after the shooting, and that he may interfere with State witnesses if released. Granting bail, Kangira said, would not be in the interest of the public or the proper administration of justice.
– awakudumo@nepc.com.na
