RUNDU – Security guards who are accused of stealing maize at government’s Sikondo irrigation scheme in Kavango West at midnight on Thursday were granted bail of N$2 000 each.

They made their first routine appearance in the Rundu Magistrate’s Court on Friday. 

Prosecutor Variety Matamata did not object to bail. The three security guards were stationed at the irrigation project and were identified as Thivambo Erastus Disho (28), Ruzendo Daniel Kasera (31) and Sapirama Nicolaus Haita (31). 

John Sema Kakunda (45) is the fourth suspect who is an alleged outside accomplice and is said to have been driving the getaway vehicle. 

The quartet who appeared before assistant magistrate Christine Sheya Kauyu were arrested for allegedly stealing 44 bags of 50kg packed with fresh maize from the Sikondo Green Scheme. Police were alerted when the culprits were spotted loading the bags of maize onto a Toyota Hilux bakkie and were apprehended a short while later.

The police only managed to recover 17 of the 44 bags of stolen maize during the arrest. Their case was remanded to 21 June for plea.