WALVIS BAY - Rehoboth resident Romario Beukes, who is accused of murdering 64-year-old Helena Wemmert in her house last week, was denied bail by the town’s magistrate’s court on Thursday during his first appearance.
The case was postponed to 27 March for further investigations.
The 29-year-old suspect, who already has a pending murder case, is expected to appear in court later this month for that matter.
Police spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi indicated that the deceased’s throat was slit with an unknown object, and she was found half-naked.
Meanwhile, United People’s Movement president Jan van Wyk last week expressed his concern over the brutal murder, and appealed to authorities to take appropriate action against those committing such crimes.
“We learned with great shock about the horrific and senseless murder of one of the residents of Rehoboth, which we condemn in the strongest terms. The victim and suspected perpetrator are known to us, which makes it more difficult for us to come to terms with the incident. Our prayers are with these families during these difficult times,” he stated.
Van Wyk then urged men to stop these deeds against women and children, adding that alcohol and drug abuse is the root cause of many problems and such brutal murders.
“I, therefore, urge the police and relevant authorities to take appropriate action to ensure our towns and Rehoboth in particular become a safe place for all of us,” he added.
Rehoboth mayor Amanda Groenewaldt on Wednesday also condemned the murder, stating that it is horrifying and senseless, instilling fear in women. She then called for stricter measures to protect women, urging the government to identify repeat offenders and dangerous criminals, and for courts to deny them bail.
“It really pains my heart that in this enlightened era, women are still dying at the hands of men. Something must be done. I am appealing to the government to look at laws; we must take stricter measures to protect our women,” Groenewaldt reiterated.
She also attributed many crimes to drug use, and criticised the ease with which individuals accused of serious offences are granted bail.
- edeklerk@nepc.com.na
Photo: Rehoboth
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