WINDHOEK – Twenty-one-year-old Silas Titus, the security guard who allegedly shot dead Tjarirove Challo Ndiriraro Makono (18), a Grade 10 learner at Ella du Plessis was denied bail when he made a routine appearance before the Katutura Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Titus, who faces a charge of murder had his legal rights explained to him during which he indicated that he would apply for a government-funded attorney through the Directorate of Legal Aid. The State represented by Peter Kandjumbwa, objected to Titus being granted bail on the grounds that a police investigation is still in its infancy, and because of the seriousness of the crime that has sent shockwaves through the school and the community. Titus was also informed that he can bring a formal bail application during his next court appearance on December 09, although in the meantime he will remain in custody at the Katutura Police Station.
Yesterday’s brief court proceedings were attended by many learners of Ella du Plessis, classmates of the deceased, as well as teachers at the school. Magistrate Claudia Claasen presided over the proceedings. The learner was reportedly shot in the head at point-blank range with a 9mm pistol by the guard in front of the school gate late on Monday evening. Police information indicates that the security guard became very angry over derogatory remarks and a verbal attack by Makono, prompting him to shoot him in a fit of rage. Eye-witnesses at the scene of the crime said the Grade 10 learner, who was in the company of friends peppered the security guard with insults and belittling remarks prompting the fatal shooting. Emergency rescue personnel briefly resuscitated Makono on the scene, but unfortunately he died before they could load him into a waiting ambulance. The victim and his friends had apparently also attacked pedestrians along Visarend Street, which passes next to the school hostel.
By Tunomukwathi Asino