A woman accused of fatally stabbing her brother-in-law during a domestic altercation at Elisenheim has been remanded in custody following her first appearance in the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Andrea Ferris (46) appeared in court, where her identity was confirmed and her legal rights were explained in terms of Article 12 (1) (e) of the Namibian Constitution, which guarantees the right to legal representation during court proceedings.
Ferris is charged with murder and the attempted murder of her ex-husband.
She told the court that she intends to apply for government-funded legal representation through the Directorate of Legal Aid.
The state objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offence, public interest, the administration of justice, and concerns that the accused could interfere with police investigations.
The court ordered that Ferris remain in custody at Klein Windhoek Police Station and postponed the matter to 4 June to allow her to apply for legal aid.
The court also explained Ferris’ rights regarding a bail application, informing her that she is not compelled to apply for bail but may do so through a formal application if she wishes to be released pending trial.
Namibian Police spokesperson deputy commissioner Kauna Shikwambi says Abre Maasdorp (40) was allegedly stabbed to death during the domestic altercation.
Shikwambi says Abre and his brother, Granville Maasdorp (45), the suspect’s ex-husband, were alerted by Ferris and Granville’s 18-year-old daughter that her mother was allegedly damaging items in the house.
“Upon their arrival at the house, the suspect allegedly stormed towards them and stabbed the ex-husband two times,” Shikwambi says.
The ex-husband allegedly ran from the house, leaving his brother behind, she says.
“The suspect allegedly then attacked her brother-in-law and stabbed him several times with a knife,” Shikwambi adds.
Emergency services later declared Abre dead at the scene, while Granville was taken to hospital and is reported to be in a stable condition.
Police investigations into the matter continue.
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