KIMBERLEY – The eight Nigerian male nationals who allegedly attacked officers and caused damage to a Kimberley Police Station in April last year are expected to reappear in the Kimberley Magistrates Court. The proceedings are set for 22 and 23 September.
Mojalefa Senokoatsane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa, said the matter will sit for the presentation of further evidence by the state involving the men. They are Onogu Nwaemeka, Kelecho Oken, Ebot Kennedy, Chijioke Steven, Charles Aknaji, Umemba Sophuru, Amajoyi Tochukwu and Charles Okerie Onyedikashi. They are facing charges of malicious damage to property, assault and public violence.
It is alleged that on 18 April, they physically attacked the police and demanded the release of one of their compatriots who had been arrested for alleged illegal possession of drugs. The men have been remanded in custody since their arrest in connection with the incident.
The state, through the lead investigative officer, successfully opposed their bail applications providing various reasons. The state cited the men were a flight risk and testified that they were in the country illegally, stating some of their visas and permits had expired.
The police reported that during processing inside the SAPS building, the suspects broke windows at the station. Specialised tactical police reinforcements were called, as tension flared. This led to the arrest of the men and the police institute charges against them.
