Windhoek — Magistrate Oupa J.J. Britz laid down the law in the Katutura Magistrate's Court yesterday.

Magistrate Britz's frustration stemmed from the fact that new cases came late before him, including the one in which two men were caught last Friday with cocaine valued at N$120 000. The magistrate's irritation was aimed at the prosecutor, while the defence lawyer for one of the men was not spared his wrath.

The magistrate threatened not to hear any new cases. Prosecutor Mendonsa Fatima explained that the cases were brought late to her, but the magistrate would have none of that and he replied that the prosecutor should find someone else to hear the cases.

The court adjourned at 11h15, and was due to start at 11h30, but the magistrate only returned after 12:00.

However, the magistrate returned with a change of heart and was ready to hear the new cases.

Defence lawyer Hendrik Kruger came to court to represent Chinese nationals facing a murder charge. He said he waited since morning. "It's a sad situation. I waited since 8:30."

"I am really disappointed, I cannot take it any more," Kruger added. Kruger's case was postponed to April 2, for a formal bail hearing. His clients are in hospital.

Meanwhile, the two men who were arrested on Friday with cocaine worth N$120 000 made their first appearance. Quinton Haoseb is representing one of the men.

While addressing the magistrate, Haoseb was sitting instead of standing as is normal practice when a lawyer addresses a magistrate.

The magistrate reminded him that he had to follow tradition.

The men who were arrested with cocaine on Friday are Floors van Rooi (58) and Karel van Rooyen (28). They were found with cocaine valued at N$120 000.

The matter was remanded to May 29 for further police investigation.

The two accused were remanded in custody. The State objected bail, but Haoseb informed the court he intends to bring a formal bail application.

Haoseb of LorentzAngula law firm represented Van Rooi while Sarel Maritz represented Van Rooyen.