Maria Amakali
A man, accused of killing his wife and daughter and injuring two other people in a shooting spree over the weekend, is suicidal. This was revealed yesterday by prosecutor Edel Uupindi when the accused, Edward Rooi (56), made his first appearance in the Katutura Magistrate’s Court. “We ask that the accused be kept at the Windhoek Correctional Prison for observation and his own safety, as he is deemed to be suicidal,” said Uupindi.
Uupindi also informed the court the State is against Rooi’s release on bail, pending the finalisation of his case. Uupindi explained Rooi is facing serious charges, investigations are still ongoing, and it would not be in the interest of the public or administration of justice
Magistrate Namwenyo Shikalepo granted the request and informed Rooi of his legal rights for applying for bail. The court postponed the matter to 27 January 2023 for Rooi to apply for legal aid and further police investigations.
The prosecution is charging Rooi with two counts of murder for shooting and killing his wife Meggie Rooi (56) and daughter Goldie Landsberg (30). The prosecution further claims Rooi tried to kill Willem Cloete (age unknown) by shooting him four times and Silvia Kotze (32), who was shot once in the thigh. He also faces a charge of malicious damage to property. The shooting incident occurred on Saturday afternoon on a farm in Stinkwater in the Dordabis area.
According to media reports, the couple has been in an abusive relationship for years, leading to their separation three years ago. The couple’s daughter and eyewitness, Stajane Rooi, said her mother and siblings have been staying at her mother’s home after the separation. It is alleged that on the day of the incident, Rooi went looking for Maggie.
When he arrived at the house, he picked up an axe and aimed it toward one of his daughters, who ran away. After she fled, he allegedly took out his gun and shot Cloete four times. Meggie was shot while she and Stajane were running into the house. He allegedly approached Stajane, slapped her, and said she was next. However, he did not shoot her.
It is alleged that Rooi suspected Meggie of having an affair with Cloete.
- mamakali@nepc.com.na