Two more accused appear in court for 7de Laan murder

By Valeria Handobe, via NewsonOne

A 23-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man appeared in the Katutura Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday in connection with Christof Frederik’s murder. The young woman, Tashiya Joyce Olivia Nandoma, and Joslin Booysen appeared on one charge of obstructing the course of justice and their case was remanded to 31 July for further investigations.

After having their rights to legal representation explained, Nandomba and Booysen informed the court that they would each conduct their own defence.

Magistrate Surita Savage said the State opposes bail due to the seriousness of the offence they face, that the accused will interfere with investigations, and that the matter is of public interest.

Nandomba’s younger brother, 18-year-old Namwandi Elias Silvanus Nandomba, appeared alongside Mervin Beukes in court on Monday for Frederik’s murder, defeating the course of justice and violation of a corpse.

Speaking at the court this week is Katutura residence community committee Victor // Hauseb, who condemned Frederik’s killing, and called for acceptance and support for the LGBTQI+ community. He emphasised the need for families to have open and honest conversations about gender identity and sexual orientation.

” Today in this country in Namibia, be it a Damara, Namara or Herero, Oshiwambo, Kavango or Caprivian, just call it up. There is a gay person in that community.. because the communities are so suppressed, and they are hidden because of their traditions and cultures. But me as Victor speaking now, I have a lot of knowledge about who and what, especially in Aawambo tribe, you will see two men walking together. You might think they are friends, but in the meantime, these people are dating, they are versatile,”stated //Hausab.

Frederik’s lifeless body was found in a riverbed next to Chairman Mao Zendong High School in 7de Laan last week. It is alleged that Frederik, who is from the LGBTQI+ community and identified as a woman, was allegedly stabbed 42 times and had his private parts cut off and placed on his chest.