The Oshana police are investigating a fraud case involving over N$100 000 after 13 workers employed by the health ministry did not receive their July salaries.
This is despite the money having been paid over from their employer.
The victims receive their salaries through Bank Windhoek.
A case of fraud was registered on Friday after the employees reported not having received their salaries, prompting the investigation.
The Oshana police crime investigations coordinator, deputy commissioner Hilja Haipumbu said the case is still at a very sensitive stage.
She added that it appears the money was diverted from reaching the individuals’ bank accounts through the use of an online app.
Haipumbu said the region is expecting an expert team to join the local investigators to trace the presumed syndicate.
“No suspect has been arrested, but investigations into what really happened are still ongoing,” said Haipumbu.
The bank this week also confirmed the matter.
“Bank Windhoek is aware of the incident, and can confirm that a case has been registered with the police, and is subject to investigation. We, therefore, cannot provide any further information at this stage,” said Bank Windhoek’s executive officer of retail banking services and specialist finance, James Chapman.
Meanwhile, Haipumbu has appealed to the public to always be vigilant and to report fraudulent activities as well as to refrain from giving personal information through telephonic conversations.
“If someone calls you claiming they are calling from an office, it is better that you inform them that you will visit the office, instead of giving personal information telephonically,” she stressed.