Three men accused of the murder and robbery of businessman Daniele Ferrari are still waiting to hear on what charges and in which court they will be tried.
Public prosecutor Precious Matali informed magistrate Jillen Kapia last week that there are still further instructions by the prosecutor general which were not complied with. They are also waiting for the transcribed record before a decision can be made. As a result, she asked the magistrate for a postponement to 3 April.
The bail of Kefas Iileka (33), Johannes Shetunyenga (32) and Antonio Muvua Cheme (26) was extended with amended conditions. They must report daily between 08h00 and 17h00 at the Wanaheda police station, not leave the district of Windhoek without the consent of the investigating officer, and are not allowed to communicate directly or indirectly with State witnesses. They are also not allowed to interfere with the investigations in any way.
It is alleged by the State that the accused robbed and murdered Windhoek resident Ferrari (52) at Avis Dam on 14 July 2020. Iileka is further charged with having committed an armed robbery at the dam on 10 July 2020.
Ferrari was robbed and killed when he was attacked with a panga and stabbed with a knife while visiting the dam, which is a popular spot for walkers.
Iileka and Shetunyenga were arrested and charged in connection with the robbery and murder in November 2020. They were arrested after Cheme informed the police that he bought the stolen cellphone from them. They are facing charges of murder and robbery. Iileka already made a confession before a magistrate.
Cheme was arrested on charges of receiving stolen property, and obstructing or attempting to obstruct the course of justice related to the murder and robbery of Ferrari, who was killed and had his wallet, cellphone and wristwatch taken.
Cheme had to bring a formal bail application through his legal aid lawyer, Tuna Nhinda, after the State strenuously objected to it on the grounds that the charges are serious, that the accused is a flight risk, and that he is likely to interfere with the investigation and with State witnesses.
Evidence during the bail hearing suggested that Cheme is a buyer of electronic gadgets without requiring proof of ownership, and that’s how he came into possession of Ferrari’s cellphone. The charge of defeating the course of justice came about after he allegedly instructed Iikela to destroy the phone, as it is linked to a murder investigation.
Iileka and Shetunyenga were granted bail in an amount of N$2 000 each, while Cheme was granted bail in the amount of N$5 000.
– rrouth@nepc.com.na