Molly Weyulu 

The Namibian Police have reported a concerning increase in fire incidents over the past few months, leading to fatalities and significant property damage.

Namibian Police Force spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi in a statement said several arson cases, some involving minors, are currently under investigation.

In a recent incident in Tsumeb, a fire that reportedly started in a shack housing farmworkers quickly spread while the occupants were asleep, ultimately destroying 20 additional shacks.

In a separate incident on 1 July at Onethindi, an inquest into an unnatural death was opened following the death of 39-year-old Tobias Silvanus. 

He died instantly when his clothes caught fire while he was heating food in his kitchen. 

Another inquest was initiated on 16 June after a woman died when her sleeping quarters were engulfed in flames.

She urged the public to exercise extreme caution, especially during colder evening hours.

She warned that minors should not handle or play with flammable materials and must be supervised when around open flames.

“Avoid using fire or candles when under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances. Use extreme care and supervision when operating electrical heating appliances, candles, oil/paraffin lamps and gas stoves,” Shikwambi said.

She also warned that illegal or unauthorised electrical connections must be avoided at all costs.

“We are appealing to parents and caregivers to prioritise the safety and protection of our children,” she stated. -Nampa