Babalola (38), a Nigerian national reportedly living at 7 Jeppe Street in Windhoek's Northern Industrial Area, pleaded not guilty.

The matter was postponed until November 17 for further investigation.

Babalola's lawyer, Rachel Nataniel, indicated that her client would bring a bail application within the next week.

Babalola allegedly extorted money from a businessman in Oshakati, Police indicated.

They were also investigating a number of other alleged charges, some of which have been brought to the attention of the Bank of Namibia's foreign-exchange control department.

Well-placed sources indicated that Babalola was initially held for questioning about alleged irregular foreign currency transactions on two business accounts he had at a local bank.

Although the Permanent Secretary of Mines and Energy, Joseph Iita, could not be reached for comment, it was established that Babalola resigned from the Ministry with effect from the end of this month.

Babalola was employed as a Senior Inspector in the Directorate of Energy.

* John Grobler is a freelance journalist; 081 240 1587

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