Community questions bail in cannabis case

The Okahandja Magistrate's Court on Tuesday granted bail of N$260 000 to David van der Linden, who is facing charges linked to a large-scale cannabis cultivation site near Hochfeld operation valued at between N$52 million and N$58 million.

The decision has sparked concern among community members.

Community activist Johannes Gerub Gaseb said the granting of bail has raised questions about whether the criminal justice system gives sufficient weight to the seriousness of organised drug-related offences.

While acknowledging the constitutional principle that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, residents argued that public confidence in the justice system could be undermined if serious offences are perceived to be treated leniently.

"The fight against drugs is not merely a legal matter, it is a fight for the future of our children, our families and our nation," he said.

 - Aurelia Afrikaner