After Rodrigo Luciano Catimba's first interrogation, ANATA vice-president, attorney Jovete Domingos confirmed the hearing of the detained defendant, stating that the defense is awaiting the judge's ruling to determine the coercive measure that will be applied.
"We are still awaiting the judge's ruling, which could be issued at any moment. For everything else, we will wait and trust in the Angolan justice system and state institutions," the attorney told reporters.
Rodrigo Luciano Catimba was arrested on Thursday in Benguela on suspicion of inciting violence, defending crime, rebellion, and terrorism, authorities announced.
This Monday, ANATA president Francisco Paciente, who also attended Catimba's first interrogation, stated that the members stand in solidarity with their vice-president and hoped that justice will be served in his favor.
"We are following the hearing and will remain faithful to justice. What we want is to see our colleague released. The lawyers are leading the case, and we are here to monitor and show our solidarity with our brother," he said.
"We will trust the institutions, and taxi drivers and society must wait calmly and hope that he is released," he concluded.
Rodrigo Catimba's arrest came after three days of protests and riots in several provinces, following the taxi service strike called by ANATA for July 28, 29, and 30.
The latest National Police report indicated 30 deaths, 277 injuries, and more than 1,500 arrests in seven provinces, including Luanda, Benguela, Huíla, Huambo, Malanje, Bengo, and Lunda Norte.
