Windhoek: A 43-year-old man who allegedly raped a 15-year-old girl was denied bail when he appeared in the Otjiwarongo Magistrate's Court on Tuesday. Vehonga Ndura, who was arrested on Sunday, appeared before Magistrate Billy Lutaka and was represented by privately hired defense lawyer, Thomas Andima.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Prosecutor Wendy Nkando strongly objected to the granting of bail, arguing that police investigations were still in their infancy. "The State has a strong case against the accused, and it will not be in the interest of the public as well as that of the administration of justice for Ndura to be released on bail at this stage," Nkando told the court.

The case was then postponed to 07 September 2026 to allow for a formal bail application and hearing in court. Ndura was arrested in Otjiwarongo on Sunday following allegations that he raped a 15-year-old Grade 8 learner from Karundu Junior Secondary School.

Namibian Police Force Head of Community Affairs in the Otjozondjupa Region, Senior Inspector Maureen Mbeha, said Ndura had allegedly forced himself on the victim last Wednesday night at a guesthouse in the Extension 6 residential area. She said medical examinations were also conducted on the victim Thursday morning, with the medical report currently in police possession.

The State formally opened the case against Ndura on behalf of the victim on Thursday. Police investigations continue.