Detective Inspector Frans Job has denied claims the task team investigating the Namdia heist is biased.

He said this when cross-examined by bail applicant George Cloete during the bail application hearing in the Keetmanshoop Magistrates' Court on Friday.  

Cloete told Job that the investigating officers seek to influence the outcome of the case. 

He argued that Job failed to prove that his property confiscated during his arrest was unlawfully obtained with proceeds from unlawful activities. 

Job disagreed and testified the state presented the evidence. 

Cloete asked Job the value and weight of diamonds he allegedly trafficked, but he said the investigation is still ongoing. 

He further said Job failed to present evidence that he and his co-accused were dealing with an alleged diamond dealer, Nico Viljoen. 

In response, Job said although the investigation is still ongoing, there are reasonable grounds to believe the accused trafficked diamonds based on police affidavits obtained as well as information received from police informants. 

Cloete put it to Job that this amounted to hearsay and speculation from the so-called informants. 

The bail applicant further put it to Job that he earned income from forex trading, adding that he has so far failed to disprove his claims. 

He added Job did not investigate his cryptocurrency transaction since he lacks knowledge of forex trading. 

Job said the investigation is still ongoing, and that much remains to be uncovered.

The detective inspector added the burden of proof lay with the bail applicant. 

Meanwhile, Magistrate Mulonda Masuku dismissed an application by the bail applicants George and Bino to be detained in Keetmanshoop. 

Bino Cloete cited medical reasons, saying he experiences difficulties accessing his chronic medications when they run out of stock. 

George Cloete, on the other hand, said their detention in Keetmanshoop would allow them to better prepare for their bail application hearing, as the family would assist to obtain any required documents.

The brothers are expected to return to court on 26 January for the bail application hearing continuation. 

Currently, the brothers are being detained at the Hardap Correctional Facility.