Rundu: The 29-year-old Angelo De Pablo Antonio, suspected of dealing in stolen goods, was denied bail in the Rundu Magistrate's Court on Monday. According to the charge sheet seen by this reporter on Wednesday, Antonio appeared before Magistrate Sonia Sampofu, facing two charges, one relating to dealing in a prohibited dependence-producing drug, namely cannabis, or a plant from which such a drug can be manufactured, and possession of suspected stolen property.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Antonio was denied bail due to the seriousness of the case. It is alleged that members of the Namibian Police (NamPol) in the Kavango East Region arrested Antonio on Saturday following a tip-off from community members.

Antonio is accused of purchasing stolen goods, including cellphones, which he allegedly reprogrammed to render them untraceable before reselling them, mainly to buyers in Angola. During a raid at his residence, police reportedly recovered cannabis, electronic devices, and other suspected stolen items.

Investigations further revealed that the house was allegedly being used as a distribution hub for stolen goods. The arrest is part of an ongoing police operation that commenced on 30 January and is scheduled to conclude on 22 February.