Deputy Prosecutor General Louis du Pisani told The Namibian that the charges against Petra Laaser (40) were withdrawn yesterday because there was no case against her.

Charges against Laaser's companion, Frederick Johannes Smith, remain. Laaser was a passenger on the motorbike Smith was riding. He allegedly attempted to pass three white Government Chevies on the road between Arandis and Usakos on Sunday October 6.

"She [Laaser] had no influence on the driver and she was basically just sitting behind the driver. There is just no reasonable prospect of a successful prosecution (against her)," Du Pisani said.

Smith is due to appear in court again on March 4 next year.
Approached for comment yesterday, Laaser said: "I am glad that the charges against me have been withdrawn. You can't just apply for a job and ... be employed with a criminal charge against you."

Laaser said she would continue with a civil claim against the PM's chief guard, JS Shikongo, who allegedly ordered the arrest because he insisted that she be arrested in spite of an explanation that she was just a passenger.

"Even though I got my bail money I am going to institute claims for the damages I suffered in jail. It was ridiculous and he locked me up because he said I am talking too much," Laaser said.

"I feel great now because I am not a criminal," she added.
Laaser and Smith were released on bail of N$1 500 each on October 7 after spending a night in the Usakos Police cells.

Laaser's lawyer, Elise Angula of Lorentz and Bone, confirmed she is also acting for Smith.

Angula said earlier that when the motorbike attempted to overtake the three Government vehicles there were no flashing lights indicating they were escorting the Prime Minister.

According to Gurirab's spokesperson, Audrin Mathe: "The security staff of the Prime Minister tried to motion the occupants of the two motorbikes not to do so [overtake]. For the safety and security of the Prime Minister, the security staff enforced the Road Traffic and Transport Regulation of 2001."

In terms of the regulation, the "State motorcade is described as two or more vehicles travelling together for the purpose of conveying Namibian or foreign State dignitaries and escorted by traffic or military police to ensure a safe and unimpeded journey for those motor vehicles."

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