Alleged N$480 000 bank scam suspect in court
A 27-year-old man, Vaino Shaanika, accused of defrauding First National Bank (FNB) of nearly N$480,000 under false pretenses, made his first appearance in the Ondangwa Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Shaanika was arrested on March 27 and faces charges of fraud, with an alternative charge of theft, as well as a second charge under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA) for the acquisition, possession, or use of proceeds from unlawful activities. He allegedly impersonated Andreas Kalumbu to fraudulently obtain the funds between December 24, 2024, and February 3, 2025.
During his court appearance, Shaanika informed Magistrate Nelao Ya France that he intends to seek private legal representation. State prosecutor Tony Bock opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the offense and the risk of interfering with witnesses and investigations. The magistrate ruled in favor of continued detention.
Shaanika will remain in custody until his next court appearance on September 25, 2025, as investigations continue.
Shaanika was arrested on March 27 and faces charges of fraud, with an alternative charge of theft, as well as a second charge under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA) for the acquisition, possession, or use of proceeds from unlawful activities. He allegedly impersonated Andreas Kalumbu to fraudulently obtain the funds between December 24, 2024, and February 3, 2025.
During his court appearance, Shaanika informed Magistrate Nelao Ya France that he intends to seek private legal representation. State prosecutor Tony Bock opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the offense and the risk of interfering with witnesses and investigations. The magistrate ruled in favor of continued detention.
Shaanika will remain in custody until his next court appearance on September 25, 2025, as investigations continue.
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