Nust guards in court over assault

. . . accused of robbing victim of wallet

Three senior security staff members of the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) appeared in court last week over allegations of theft and assault, with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Simon Amangula, Boy Tobias van Wyk, and Michael Magwaza, allegedly assaulted Johannes Shikongo on campus by beating him with batons after he allegedly stole sweets. They are also accused of stealing Shikongo’s wallet.

The incident occurred last month during the memorial service of paramedic student Fillemon Primus, who tragically died during a practical exercise at the City of Windhoek’s Emergency Training Centre.

According to Nust, Shikongo supplied flowers for Primus’ memorial service.

Amangula, Van Wyk and Magwaza first appeared in the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court last month, following their arrest.

Magistrate Monica Andjaba presided over the matter.

The accused were granted bail in an amount of N$1 000 each.

“On 18 April at Nust, the accused persons wrongfully, unlawfully and intentionally assaulted Johannes Shikongo by beating him with batons, with intent to cause Shikongo grievous bodily harm.

“The accused also wrongfully, unlawfully, and intentionally stole the complainant’s wallet and property in the lawful possession of Johannes Shikongo,” court documents state.

The matter has been postponed to 5 June for further investigations.

A witness of the incident, who prefers to remain anonymous, says: “Nust’s head of campus security, his deputy, along with another security officer started beating up the guy, because he allegedly stole peppermint sweets, which prompted the security guards to start beating him. While they were beating him, they also took the money in his wallet.

“He was badly injured and taken to the hospital, and that is why he decided to open a case. I am still in shock, because they decided to take the matter into their own hands. Who beat someone over peppermint sweets? That is really unacceptable behaviour.”

Nust spokesperson John Haufiku says the institution’s management has initiated internal investigations into the incident.

“On Friday, 19 April, a physical altercation occurred between three Nust campus control officers and a flower supplier.

It is alleged that the flower supplier was injured. A charge of assault was laid with the Namibian Police by the victim, and the accused are currently out on bail,” he says.

“Management is deeply concerned about the incident, and intends to take the necessary steps to keep the campus a safe space for both students and members of the public.

“Nust remains committed to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all members of the community,” Haufiku says.