Erwin Frans, 38, accused of murder and two counts of attempted murder as well as assault with intent to cause serious bodily harm, pleaded not guilty before the High Court Circuit Sitting held in Katima Mulilo on Thursday.

Frans faces six counts related to the murder of his girlfriend, Mwaaka Kopelo, in February 2021 at Macaravan West near Katima Mulilo.
 
Erwin Frans pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a firearm and to possessing ammunition without a licence.

His not-guilty plea was not communicated to his Legal Aid government-funded lawyer.

In his plea explanation presented by his legal representative, Mowa Chaka, before Judge President of the High Court and Deputy Chief Justice, Petrus Damaseb, he denied having an intention to kill his girl friend.

Mowa further submitted that his client denied having fired a firearm in the direction of two of the witnesses.

He further explained that his client instructed him that he acted in self-defence after the deceased, Mwaaka Kopelo, initiated an attack on him, stabbing him with a broken 750ml beer bottle.

Frans said he had no choice but to defend himself, as after stabbing him, the deceased still charged at him holding the bottle.

He also denied assaulting a witness, one of two people who tried to separate the couple and stop them from fighting.

Frans admitted, though, that the firearm used to kill the deceased was found in his possession.

According to witness testimony, the first shot was fired at Kopelo's legs, though it hit a door next to which she was standing.

The witness said Frans then went into the house before they heard two gunshots go off.

He then reportedly exited the house with a bag, attempting to flee the scene when the other witness shouted at him not to run.

After those words, the accused allegedly pointed the gun at the second witness and fired another round, which hit the ground.

Frans' trial was set to continue today (Fri) with the second witness in the Katima Mulilo Circuit High Court.

Frans was remanded in custody.

The State was represented by Advocate Timo Itula.