Two more suspects have been added to the fraud case involving more than N$4 million that disappeared at Zambezi Regional Council. 

Public officials Abraham Shikoyeni and Nimrod Lichela made their first appearance in the Katima Mulilo Magistrate’s Court yesterday after their arrest on Monday on charges of corruptly using their position or office for gratification.

During their first court appearance, the pair were granted bail of N$50 000, respectively. 

Shikoyeni who served as deputy director of administration and Lichela who held the position of accountant will join Regina Ndopu-Lubinda, who has been serving as CRO since 2011; Beaven Walubita, who is head of planning and rural development; deputy director of planning Cletius Mubita; and chief planner Daniel Mbala.

Their case has been postponed to 7 December 2023 for them to obtain legal representation. 

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) boss Paulus Noa on Monday vowed to go after each official using their public office for personal gain.

He said the anti-graft agency is serious when it comes to acting on complaints like the current case. 

They investigated thoroughly and thereafter submitted two dockets to the prosecutor general for a decision. 

Noa emphasised that the ACC acts against any suspect implicated by evidence of corrupt activities, irrespective of status.

He issued a stern warning that these arrests should serve as a message to other public officials who indulge themselves in such dishonest actions of abusing public funds.

According to Noa, whoever is entrusted with public office and is including themselves in activities such as accepting bribes is inviting the ACC to act against them.

- anakale@nepc.com.na