Windhoek
A man was brought before the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court on Monday for allegedly faking his own death and then applying for the money from a life insurance policy to be paid out. The amount involved is N$1.3 million.
Patrick Inghepa Waandja, 30, is now facing charges of fraud and forgery, alternatively uttering a forged instrument, following his arrest on March 4. New Era could not establish all the details of the case, as State prosecutors refused this week to discuss the matter on the grounds that investigations are at a sensitive stage.
Prosecutor Rowan van Wyk asked the court that the case be remanded to May 24 for further police investigations and legal representation, as there are still statements outstanding. Van Wyk said the State objects to bail, because there is a fear that Waandja may interfere with police investigations.
Sources close to the investigation said it has not yet been confirmed whether Waandja actually received the money he applied for, but it is understood that he submitted a claim for the money.
Magistrate Ilge Rheent explained to Waandja that he can bring a formal bail application. This can be done by drafting an affidavit, stating the reasons why he wishes to be released on bail and by arranging a hearing date with the prosecutor. His rights were explained to him and he informed the court that he would hire a private lawyer. He further said he intends to plead not guilty.
“Please keep in mind that whatever you say at those proceedings may be used against you during the trial, so please be careful of what you say. You are not compelled to say anything, but in order to assess your personal circumstances and to consider your release, the court may ask you questions which you may refuse to answer. No negative inference will be drawn from your refusal to answer questions or your decision to keep quiet,” the magistrate explained.
She further said the accused is not compelled to apply for bail, however, should he wish to, a formal bail application should be submitted. “I understand,” Waandja said in response.