Ondangwa prosecutor murder accused denies role in killing

By: Maria Namupala

Murder and fraud accused Petrus Shikwaya (21) testified on Wednesday that he did not play any role in the execution or conspiracy in the death of Ondangwa prosecutor Justine Shiweda.

Shikwaya was testifying during his bail application, where he maintained his innocence in the matter.

However, he faced intense questioning regarding financial transactions and telephonic records, which the State alleges link him to the procurement of acid used in the commission of the crime.

Shikwaya admitted transferring two payments of N$600, totalling N$1 200, in September 2025 to buy acid, but argued that this was done under the direct instruction of his uncle, Abner Mateus, who is also in custody.

Public prosecutor Yeukai Kangira questioned why Shikwaya kept transferring money without knowing who he was sending it to or for what purpose. Shikwaya responded that the money belonged to Mateus, and he felt he had no reason to question the transfers.

Kangira further said Shikwaya transferred N$4 950 on 17 October 2025, and alleged that the funds were used to transport acid from Windhoek to Ondangwa, where the crime was committed.

Shikwaya said he sent the money as instructed by Mateus, who was in custody, and that he was unaware of any plan to commit murder.

Kangira further presented evidence suggesting that cellphone numbers registered in Shikwaya’s name were used to contact Petrus Uusiku, and when he was confronted with these records and allegations of planning via chat messages, Shikwaya responded with “no comment”, challenging the investigating officers’ competence.

“It is not my fault if the investigative officer does not know how to do their work; the State must provide concrete evidence of my involvement in court,” he said.

When he was questioned if he would not escape, if granted bail, Shikwaya questioned why he would flee if he believed in his innocence. “Why would I run away? One cannot commit murder if he was not at the scene,” he stated.

The accused also denied claims that Mateus bought him a farm situated 56 km south of Windhoek or gifted him two erven in Oniipa. Shikwaya said he purchased the N$11 000 plot himself and dismissed any property ownership in Ekuku.

The matter was postponed from 9 to 12 June for the continuation of the bail application hearing. Shikwaya remains in custody. He is represented by Murray Shikongo.