Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Selma Iyambo
Published on 2024-03-26 17:00:00
Investigators in Namibia have traced the money trail to the Erongo region, particularly at Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, where most of the N$2 million that disappeared in the Bank Windhoek theft involving employee Nico Rebebe was spent. Kunene regional police commander commissioner James Nderura confirmed this information to The Namibian, stating that a team of investigators has been dispatched to the region to probe the theft.
Nderura mentioned that the investigations are still ongoing, and his members are currently in the Erongo region gathering more information about the case. He emphasized the importance of waiting for the investigators to return to provide more detailed insights into the situation. Additionally, Nderura noted that the N$20,000 reward for information leading to Rebebe’s whereabouts remains unclaimed.
Deputy commissioner Paavo Iiyambo provided an update on the case, stating that 15 people have been arrested in connection with the theft and have appeared in court. He reiterated that investigations are still in progress and disclosed that N$1.5 million was discovered in the bank accounts of three suspects, while N$200,000 was found in the accounts of another three individuals.
The story unfolds with Rebebe being arrested on 8 March after 54 days on the run. The police received a tip-off that he was at Opuwo at his girlfriend’s house and wanted to surrender himself. It was alleged that he had initially been hiding in Angola. According to the Kavango East acting regional commander deputy commissioner Eino Nambahu, Rebebe had approached six individuals, promising them jobs at a farm and instructing them to open bank accounts with Bank Windhoek for their monthly salaries.
Reports from January indicated that Rebebe allegedly stole N$200 million from Bank Windhoek’s Opuwo branch. However, Bank Windhoek managing director Baronice Hans clarified that the potential loss was less than N$2 million. She commended the vigilant staff action and robust systems and controls within the bank, ensuring that no customer funds were affected by the incident. Bank Windhoek spokesperson Jacquiline Pack reiterated that the potential loss remains less than N$2 million and declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation due to legal proceedings.
The article highlights the efforts of authorities to investigate and address the theft case, shedding light on the locations where the missing money was spent and the individuals involved in the scheme. The detailed account of events provides insight into the complexities of the case and the ongoing pursuit of justice for the affected parties. As the investigation unfolds, the authorities continue to work diligently to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Read the original article on The Namibian
