Lawyer pleads not guilty in Dis-Chem theft case

Legal Aid lawyer Eva Maria Nangolo last week pleaded not guilty to charges of theft and defeating or obstructing the course of justice in the Windhoek Magistrate's Court.

Nangolo is accused of stealing items worth N$3 920 from the Dis-Chem store at Wernhil Park. The items allegedly include sunscreen, vitamin C products and anti-ageing cream.

She also faces a charge of defeating or obstructing the course of justice after allegedly refusing to hand over the keys to her vehicle, where the items were allegedly hidden.

Nangolo, who is employed by the justice ministry's Directorate of Legal Aid, made another appearance before magistrate Tony Bock on Thursday following her arrest nearly two months ago.

State prosecutor Reinhard Kamatoto informed the court that police investigations had been completed and proceeded with a plea in terms of section 119 of the Criminal Procedure Act.

After the charges of theft and defeating or obstructing the course of justice were put to her, Nangolo pleaded not guilty to both counts. Her lawyer, Mutimani Litibezi, told the court that the defence would not provide a plea explanation at this stage and reserved the right to call witnesses should the matter proceed to trial.

The matter has been postponed to 17 September.

Nangolo remains free on N$2 000 bail.

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