Iuze Mukube

Recent violent incidents involving joggers have raised concern over safety in the capital city.

Namibia Wildlife Resorts’ (NWR) managing director Matthias Ngwangwama was recently robbed of his car and cellphone while exercising in the Auasblick area of Windhoek.

Ngwangwama, was attacked at a hiking spot, and sustained stab wounds and other minor injuries.

Last Tuesday, Michael Britz, a 45-year-old running enthusiast, was attacked while jogging along the Monte Cristo Road in Katutura.

He described himself as a seasoned runner, and that running was part of his life. He said it is a lifestyle, and defines him as a person.

“The attack was surreal: I could not believe it was happening, mostly because I guess I was not expecting to be assaulted while running.

I always carry along my phone and money just in case of unexpected situations or I need to buy something. But I hide them well, but I guess the culprits have been monitoring me for a while,” stated Britz.

As he felt energetic and hyperactive that day, he decided to run five more kilometres after finishing a five-kilometre run along the Brakwater route onto Monte Cristo Road.

However, when he passed the nine-kilometre mark along the Monte Cristo Bridge, he spotted a man just sitting there, watching him.

“I had just passed him when someone came from the front with an open knife, ready to stab me. Luckily, I reacted fast and held his hand that had the knife.

By then, I was tired, but the culprit did not win. We fought in the middle of the road; cars passed flashing their lights and blaring their horns, but none came to my rescue,” sighed Britz.

He added: “Obviously, they could see what was happening, but no one stopped to help, even after the incident as I walked back home (to Shandumbala). An ambulance passed by without stopping.”

He was shocked when his attacker called for help during the attack, claiming he was being attacked. The absurdity of it all was baffling, he said.

“The individual holding the knife was rescued by the one sitting on the bridge rails; possibly they were working together: one attacks, the other alerts.

“They left me bloody, and walked away. They were not even running. They stole my phone, headphones, cap and cash,” he said.

This paper visited Britz in hospital. He said he sustained wounds on his right thigh, left buttock, and left hand as he was defending himself against face and chest injuries.

Namibian Police spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi emphasised that crime is a national concern, and there was need for everyone to protect themselves and their valuables, stating that police are not everywhere at all times.

“The police advise joggers and cyclists not to jog or cycle alone; jog in familiar and not isolated areas. While facing traffic, wear bright clothes, carry a whistle, and be alert to your surroundings.”

Shikwambi added that one should always inform relatives or friends of their destination, trust your instincts if you feel uneasy, and know your neighbours where you work and live.

Harold Akwenye, City of Windhoek spokesperson, acknowledged recent attacks, and said the City Police are taking measures to ensure the safety of residents and those engaging in outdoor activities such as jogging.

“We have increased both foot and vehicle patrols in areas popular with runners. This includes early mornings and late evenings when joggers are most likely to be out.

“We are running awareness campaigns to educate residents on safety precautions while jogging, such as avoiding isolated routes, jogging in groups, and staying alert.

“We have streamlined the process for reporting crimes, and have improved response times. There are now more officers on standby to respond to emergencies quickly.

“The police department is collaborating with local running clubs to provide safety briefings and establish a liaison system for better communication and support,” said Akwenye.

He added that the City is continuously evaluating and adapting strategies to ensure the well-being and safety of residents, urging anyone to report suspicious activities immediately.

Despite the attack, Britz was running on Saturday, shortly after he was released from hospital, saying the attackers would not deter him.

He advised his fellow runners to stay safe out there and make sure that they are in groups when they run. –mukubeiuze@gmail.com