Windhoek bouncer allegedly shot over N$30 entrance fee

Asser Nendongo appeared in the Katutura Magistrate’s Court yesterday on a charge of murder after allegedly shooting Windhoek bouncer David Vilho Mbinda (39) during a dispute over a N$30 entrance fee at a popular bar in Wanaheda last Friday.

Mbinda, popularly known as ‘Lion’, was described by friends and family as a friendly and caring man.

Nendongo was remanded in custody pending his next appearance in March for a formal bail application.

The court was filled with family and friends of both Mbinda and Nendongo.

A fellow bouncer, Santos, who worked alongside Mbinda, recounted the events of the night in an interview with Namibian Sun outside court.

He claimed Mbinda was performing routine entrance checks when a dispute erupted.

“He was on duty, trying to search people entering, and there was an entrance charge. The suspect was asked to pay N$30 and said he would swipe. But when the swipe machine came, he refused to pay," Santos said.

He added that when Mbinda reportedly attempted to conduct a body search, Nendongo refused.

Santos said that despite Mbinda urging Nendongo to remain calm, the situation escalated.

Police later reported that Nendongo allegedly withdrew a weapon and shot Mbinda in the face.

“The guy was unarmed, he was just doing his job," Santos told Namibian Sun.

He also claimed that many clubgoers frequently provoke bouncers, who are often insulted, attacked or undermined while performing their duties.

“We are accused of assaulting people; however, it is the other way around. People assault us, but our versions are never taken to heart. This is not fair,” he said.

Family mourns

Mbinda’s uncle, Absalom Isack, told Namibian Sun yesterday that the family are devastated, particularly Mbinda’s parents and young children.

“David was simply doing his job. He has left behind children; one is under a year old. How will they cope? They have lost a father,” Isack said.

The family also voiced concern that the bar where the shooting took place remains open.

“This case is fresh. When we drove by the bar before we came to court, people were drinking, trampling over Mbinda’s blood. Is that right?” he questioned.

Nendongo faces a single charge of murder and is represented by private lawyer Gehas Katoma, standing in for Kadhila Amoomo. The court heard that he had surrendered to police following the incident.

He is expected to formally apply for bail on 18 March, while the case has been postponed to 21 May for further police investigations.