By Caleb Shatyohamba
OSHIKOTO, DECEMBER 18-The Namibian Police in the Oshikoto region are urging recruiters to conduct thorough background checks on prospective employees before hiring. This follows an incident of stock theft and property damage allegedly committed by a domestic worker at Onamishu B village in the Eengodi Constituency, Oshikoto region, between December 15 and 16.
The suspect, a 34-year-old Namibian male, had been employed for only four days before the incident occurred.
“Proper vetting can help prevent incidents of theft, property damage, or other crimes,” said Chief Inspector Ellen Nehale, spokesperson for the Oshikoto Police.
Nehale further urged members of the public to ensure rigorous verification processes are followed during recruitment to avoid similar cases.
According to police reports, the suspect unlawfully slaughtered chickens and a goat without the complainant’s consent while the complainant was away in Windhoek. It is further alleged that the suspect attempted to sell items from the complainant’s home.
Intervention by the local Men and Women Network reportedly angered the suspect, prompting him to set the complainant’s house on fire.
Two huts were destroyed in the blaze, along with several items stored in them.
The incident resulted in the destruction and theft of several household and agricultural items, including:
25 plastic chairs, 2 sofas, 1 electric and gas fridge, 2 large gas cylinders, 1 plastic container (90kg capacity), 4 single window frames, 1 set of window glass, 1 metal table, 1 three-legged pot, 5 maroon pots, 1 plow, 1 toolbox, 6 spades, 4 iron saws, 2 office chairs, 10 hoes, 2 pliers, 3 large sacks, 1 wheelbarrow, 2 unused tires, Bow and arrows, Various cutlery items
The total value of the stolen and damaged property is estimated at N$52,684.
The suspect has been arrested, and police investigations are ongoing.
