Prosecutors nabbed for corruption

Prosecutors nabbed for corruption Two prosecutors have been found to be wanting by the Anti-Corruption Commission, leading to their arrest last week.

Former Katutura Magistrate''s Court prosecutor Wilson Phillips was arrested on charges of corruption, fraud and theft on 30 November 2016.

His arrest was followed by that of Windhoek-based prosecutor Ivan Tjizu last week Thursday after he allegedly arranged individuals to pose as witnesses in court, which saw them claiming witness fees.

“The charges relate to his alleged involvement in corruption racketeering where he would allegedly misrepresent to the magistrate that witnesses travelled from outside of Windhoek to testify and once witness fees are disbursed to share in the cash misappropriated.

“He allegedly arranged for individuals to pose as witnesses in court and these individuals then claimed witness fees. Currently the value of offences on which witness fees were disbursed are approximately N$280 000,” the ACC said in a statement.

Tjizu''s case was postponed to 8 December for a formal bail application, while he remains in custody. Meanwhile, Wilson was released on N$10 000 bail and the case postponed to 3 February next year.

Wilson is accused of using his office - when he was still employed as a prosecutor – to withdraw criminal charges against a suspect.

“The charges relate to the alleged corrupt use of his office and position to obtain a gratification for Mr Kennedy Thiongo Kasume by fraudulently withdrawing criminal charges against him, allegedly stealing a charge sheet and by misrepresenting to the presiding Magistrate that the complainant wanted to withdraw the criminal matter.

“On withdrawal of the case the police was allegedly falsely brought under the impression that a motor vehicle which was seized as an exhibit in the case can be returned to Mr Kasume.”

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