The Windhoek Magistrate's Court has denied bail to the NAMDIA diamond robbery accused, Joel Angula, ordering that he remain in custody until his trial is finalised.

Angula was arrested on 19 January 2025, a day after the daring robbery occurred.

He faces eight charges, including murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, two counts of attempted murder, possession of rough and uncut diamonds, theft of rough and unpolished diamonds, and contravening the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.

In his bail application, Angula told the court there is no evidence linking him to the crimes. He said the state’s case is weak and argued that he would not flee if released.

He also indicated that he intends to plead not guilty to all charges.

The state opposed bail, saying the charges are serious and that it has evidence connecting him to the offences.

The prosecutors argued that Angula could abscond, interfere with witnesses, or commit further offences if released. The state also said it would not be in the interest of the public or the justice system to grant bail.

In a ruling delivered on Monday, the Windhoek Magistrate said the court heard that a witness claimed Angula discussed plans for a robbery at NAMDIA in 2024. Angula denied the conversation.

Evidence was also presented that diamonds valued at N$4.7 million were found at his residence after he gave police permission to search. Angula denied knowledge of the diamonds and suggested they were planted.

The court found that the state had shown it had a case against him, although it noted that some of the charges may overlap.

On the issue of flight risk, the magistrate said there was no evidence that Angula had attempted to flee. However, the court found that the seriousness of the charges and the possible sentence he faces must be taken into account.