Windhoek: The Katima Mulilo Magistrate's Court on Tuesday postponed a case of alleged murder through arson to 05 November to allow for further police investigations. The case involves 38-year-old suspect, Nampwa Dudu Fiona Matengu, who faces charges of murder, attempted murder, arson, and defeating the course of justice.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the charges stem from an alleged intentional house fire that led to the death of her co-tenant, 42-year-old Nsala Mwazi, who is suspected to have died of smoke inhalation. Appearing before Magistrate Davy Kambinda, the accused was informed of her right to legal representation. Matengu indicated to the court that she intends to apply for State-funded legal aid.

The State, represented by prosecutors Brunah Mukoya and Cedric Mundia, opposed bail, arguing that the accused faces four serious counts, including murder, and that investigations are still in the preliminary stages. The court was informed that a forensics team from Windhoek is still expected to examine the crime scene. Furthermore, the prosecution argued that releasing the accused would jeopardise public safety and the administration of justice, noting that there is a strong risk of witness interference since the State witnesses are known to the accused.

Magistrate Kambinda remanded Matengu in custody at the Katima Mulilo police holding cells and advised her to launch a formal bail application if she wishes to seek release. According to a Namibian Police Force report, the incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning at the Shack Dwellers residential area in Katima Mulilo. The fire allegedly broke out around midnight while Mwazi was asleep with her two minor children. Mwazi managed to save her children by pushing them through a burglar-barred window to safety while crying for help, but she was unable to escape the burning room and perished inside.

The case was postponed to 05 November 2026 for further police investigations and to finalise legal aid arrangements.