A resident of Iikokola Village in the Oshikoto Region, Sinkus Johannes made his first court appearance in the Ondangwa Magistrates' Court on charges of murder and attempted murder.

Johannes is accused of fatally shooting the Sub-headman of Iikokola Village, Sam Nepando, and attempting to murder the Headman, I-Ben Nashandi on Friday.

State Prosecutor Yeukai Kangira opposed the bail, arguing that the matter was premature for bail consideration due to the seriousness of the offenses.

The 59-year-old Johannes also faces other charges that include discharging a firearm in a public place and defeating the course of justice after allegedly hiding the pistol used in the commission of the crime in the bush.

The court explained to Johannes his right to legal representation, and he opted to be represented through legal aid.

Kangira further told the Court that the State fears the accused may carry out threats to kill Nashandi, who is still recovering in hospital from gunshot injuries.

The State also submitted that Johannes is a flight risk, as he allegedly fled the scene after the shooting, and that there is a likelihood he may interfere with State witnesses if released on bail.

Prosecutor Kangira added that granting bail at this stage would not be in the interest of the public or the administration of justice.

The case has been postponed to 18 June 2026 to allow for further police investigations.

Meanwhile, Juno Nashandi, a twin brother of the injured Headman, welcomed the court's decision to postpone the case, saying the ruling brought some measure of relief to the community.

“We are satisfied with the objection of bail against the accused, and we will applaud the prosecution for opposing bail at all levels until a successful conviction is reached and a stiffer maximum sentence is meted out against the accused. For now justice must prevail," he added.