Windhoek: The Ondangwa Magistrate's Court on Monday denied bail to 31-year-old Onandjokwe Hospital medical doctor Dennis Lipumbu Noa, who is facing a charge of rape after allegedly sexually assaulting a 26-year-old man at his residence at the hospital in Oniipa.According to Namibia Press Agency, Noa made his first court appearance on Monday before Magistrate Nelao Ya France, who ordered that he remain in custody after the State opposed his release on bail pending further investigations. Prosecutor Aina Magano Mwaala informed the court that investigations are still at an early stage, with six witness statements, a photo plan, and three forensic reports outstanding.Mwaala argued that rape is a Schedule 1 offence and that the State has established a prima facie case against the accused. She stated, "It is not in the interests of the administration of justice or the public interest for the accused to be released on bail." Mwaala further contended that Noa has the means to interfere with witnesses and investig ations, could commit similar offences if released, and is a flight risk given the lengthy custodial sentence he could face if convicted.Magistrate Ya France agreed with the State's submissions, noting, "The investigations are still at an early stage. Three forensic reports are still outstanding, and there is a likelihood that the accused may interfere with investigations or witnesses, or commit a similar offence if released on bail." Consequently, Noa was remanded in custody, and the matter was postponed to 27, 30, and 31 July 2026 for a formal bail application. He is represented by Allan Homela of BB Boois Attorneys.According to the Namibian Police, the complainant travelled to Oniipa after allegedly being invited by Noa to celebrate his new job, with the accused paying for his transport. Police allege the pair consumed alcohol before the complainant noticed what appeared to be a dissolving pill in his drink and began feeling nauseous. The complainant allegedly escaped by breaking a window after finding the room locked and later regained consciousness in a hospital bed. Both men underwent medical examinations, including rape kit procedures, and police investigations are continuing.In 2024, Noa was acquitted by the Windhoek High Court in a separate rape case involving an 18-year-old male patient after the court found that the State had failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.