Swift justice for criminals targeting tourists

The message is now crystal clear. If you commit crimes against tourists a swift and rather lengthy prison sentence can await you. And forget about stretched out investigations and repeat appearances in court – your spot in the Government Hotel (prison) is booked in a matter of days.

Thanks to the quick response by members of the Namibian Police, police reservists and the Swakopmund Neighbourhood Watch two persons who stole from tourists during the festive season in Swakopmund were not only caught but also convicted and sentenced to jail in a matter of a few days.
The first incident was reported on Christmas Day. A 32-year German tourist was sitting on a bench next to the Vineta walkway on the ocean front when a person suddenly reached over her shoulder from behind and grabbed her Samsung Tablet S5 valued at N$6 000. When she turned around the person who grabbed the device allegedly threatened her with a big knife and left.
The incident was immediately reported to the Neighborhood Watch and thanks to their quick response one suspect, who was still in the possession of the knife as well as the stolen tablet, was apprehended. A second suspect believed to be an accomplice was also arrested.
The two suspects appeared in the Swakopmund magistrates court three days later. The complainant testified and the main suspect, Hawie Kahuika (20), was convicted and sentenced to 24 months imprisonment without the option of a fine. The second suspect, a 17-year old Namibian, was acquitted after insufficient evidence was presented.
The second incident was reported on 27 December 2017. At about 12:30 in the Swakopmund central business district three suspects smashed the window of a rented car parked in Sam Nujoma Avenue. The victims were South African tourists. The suspects grabbed a back pack, two towels and a book with a combined value of N$2 760-55 before running off.
Once again, all three suspects were promptly apprehended and all stolen items were recovered.
The three suspects appeared in the Swakopmund magistrates court two days later and in this instance too the victim testified. The case was finalised and one accused, Thomas Johannes (35), was convicted and sentenced to a fine of N$3 000-00 or six months imprisonment. Two suspects were acquitted.