Kaviveterue Virere 

A 31-year-old man died after a house he was in was gutted by fire at Outjo over the weekend. The fire was reportedly caused by a cellphone charger that exploded. 

According to the police, the victim, identified as Wenfrey Useb, re-entered the burning house in an attempt to rescue children but succumbed to severe burns and smoke inhalation. Another individual from the same incident sustained injuries and is recovering in the hospital. 

Suicides 

Police also recorded several suicides over the weekend, including that of a learner. 

In Opuwo’s Ombombo village, 18-year-old Uahupiramo Mutambo, a learner at Ombombo Combined School, was found hanging from a mopane tree near the schoolyard. He had reportedly left class to buy personal items before the incident. No suicide note was discovered, and police have ruled out foul play. His next of kin has been informed. 

In Windhoek’s Havana area, 19-year-old Gideon Mbashi was found by his father hanging in the toilet of their home on Sunday morning. He had reportedly attended a party the night before. No suicide note was found. 

Fatal road accidents 

Two road accidents also claimed lives in the Omusati and Erongo regions, with alcohol abuse suspected to be the cause in both cases. 

At Omahenene location between Omungwelume and Oshakati, 35-year-old pedestrian Penehafo Hainghumbi was killed after being struck by a Ford Drift vehicle. Police said the 32-year-old driver, who was allegedly drunk and without a valid licence, fled the scene but was later arrested. He is expected to appear in the Oshakati Magistrate’s Court. 

In Walvis Bay, 27-year-old Marie Machab died when a Toyota Etios overturned on Nghifikepunye Pohamba Road between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Police said the driver lost control while allegedly under the influence of alcohol. Two passengers were injured and admitted to Swakopmund State Hospital. 

Inquest 

Meanwhile, in Ongwediva, 44-year-old Aino Helvi Endjala died shortly after being rushed to Ongwediva Medipark Hospital on Friday evening. Police confirmed she had been suffering from a medical condition, and an inquest docket has been opened. 

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