The Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, says a government investigation will “get to the bottom” of why 16 correctional officers were loaded into a van meant for transporting inmates. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Iipumbu dismissed claims that the officers did not have an alternative decent means of transportation. She said two vehicles – a van normally used for transporting inmates and a Quantum bus specifically allocated for officers – had been assigned for duty that day.
“What we need to establish is why the van meant for inmates was used to transport the officers instead,” she said.
The accident, which occurred last Sunday, killed 14 uniformed officers and two civilians. “This was not a case of negligence in assigning transport,” the minister added as she assured the nation that the findings of the probe will be made public.
“This is a very painful moment. We have lost colleagues, breadwinners, parents, and siblings. We owe it to them and their families to provide answers. That is why we are conducting a thorough investigation,” Iipumbu said.
Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Joseph Shikongo, acknowledged the pressure but said efforts are being made to improve logistics.
“We are thankful that in recent years, the government has allocated funds for new vehicles. In 2023 and 2024, we bought more than 250 vehicles, and this year we expect to add more than 160,” he said, emphasising that police vehicles are used round the clock.
Support for families
The minister stressed that the ministry acted immediately to support affected families. “From the moment the accident took place, we dispatched a team to Mariental, including investigators and psychosocial support staff providing therapy and counselling. We are also making arrangements for a dignified send-off,” she said.
Motor Vehicle Accident Fund chief executive officer Rosalia Haufiku confirmed that the costs for emergency services had already been covered. “Ambulance costs, emergency flights, and hospital care are covered. Families of the deceased will each receive N$7 000 towards funeral costs. Dependents may also qualify for loss of support of up to N$100 000 per year,” she said.
Shikongo also urged Namibians to stop circulating graphic photos from the crash site.
“You cannot arrive at an accident scene with injured people and overturned vehicles and immediately start posting pictures on social media before the families (of the victims) are informed. We are investigating how these images spread and urge citizens to respect the dignity of victims,” he said.
Both minister Iipumbu and Shikongo emphasised that while resources are stretched, the government is committed to strengthening logistics and ensuring officers travel safely in the future. The minister added that the remains are being kept in Windhoek until post-mortems are completed.
An official memorial service for all 16 victims will take place today at 11h00 at the Mariental Sports Field. Transport arrangements have been made for families wishing to attend. Those requiring transport are advised to contact police spokesperson Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi at police headquarters.
ljason@nepc.com.na