The woman implicated in the murder of Nsala Mwazi, who died in a house fire in Katima Mulilo in August, has been remanded into custody until February next year, while awaiting arrangements for legal aid.

The accused, Nambwa Matengu, made her second appearance before Magistrate Davy Kambinda in Katima Mulilo on Thursday.

Matengu faces four charges, including murder, arson, and two counts of attempted murder relating to Mwazi's two children, who were inside the room when the fire broke out.

She is accused of killing Mwazi, who died after a fire engulfed her bedroom, which she shared with her two children. 

Matengu also faces an arson charge for allegedly setting the room alight and two counts of attempted murder in connection with the children.

The State said the children survived after escaping through a window.

Police investigations revealed that a five-liter container smelling of petrol was found near the entrance to Mwazi's room, where the fire is suspected to have started.

The State also informed the court that the two tenants were reportedly not on good terms, although the circumstances surrounding their alleged dispute remain under investigation.

During her previous court appearance, the State opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the charges and the preliminary stage of investigations.

Matengu has been remanded in custody until 8 February 2027, when she is expected to make her next court appearance, pending arrangements for legal aid.