Iuze Mukube

An administrative employee of the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) appeared in the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of fraud.

Maria Hengari (41) was arrested on suspicion of causing Nust to lose over N$2 million by clearing student debts under false pretences, as the funds reportedly never reached the institution.

Hengari was charged with two counts including fraud and acquisition, possession or use of proceeds of unlawful activities in contravention of section 6 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. On the first count, it is alleged that between 2021 and 2024 in Windhoek, Hengari unlawfully and with intent to defraud, pretended to Nust, and members of the Bursar, that 130 students made payments, totalling N$2 638 286.25 to the institution.

By means of this false pretence, it allegedly induced Nust and others to the actual or potential loss of prejudice to the institution and others, to the tune of over N$2 million.

However, Hengari, while allegedly committing the offence, ought to have known or knew in fact that she did not pay over the money received from students to Nust, and therefore committed the crime of fraud.

On the second count, it is alleged that between that same period, Hengari committed the offence of money laundering as she acquired, used, possessed and brought into or took out of Namibia, property, while knowing that it forms part of the proceeds of unlawful activities.

Prosecutor Reinhard Kamatoto indicated that investigations are not finalised, and objected to granting bail, citing risk of interference with witnesses and investigations.

Additionally, the seriousness of the offence, the strength of the state’s case and that it will not be in the interest of the administration of justice for Hengari to be granted bail.

Magistrate Immanuel Udjombala postponed the matter to 3 June 2026 for further investigations. -mukubeiuze@gmail.com