Geingob’s watch, cologne stolen by security official

… while nation mourned, Rolex stolen and sold to son of former minister

A security officer entrusted with guarding president Hage Geingob allegedly stole a Rolex watch and cologne from the late president, while the nation was mourning.

A person familiar with this matter told The Namibian this week that the watch was stolen two weeks ago and sold to a son of a former minister.

“However, it was agreed that the matter would only be dealt with after the funeral. The officer allegedly sold the watch to a prominent political figure’s son. When he was interrogated by the police, he initially denied it. Later on, he admitted that he had bought the watch from the officer,” a source said.

It’s unclear exactly when the items were stolen or how much the stolen items were worth, but a source claimed that it’s an “old watch”.

Police inspector general Joseph Shikongo told The Namibian he was not aware of the case.

“No, I am not aware of the case. The matter is maybe somewhere but not in my office. It was not brought to me here. You can check with the police stations, but nothing has been reported to me.”

Another person familiar with this matter rejected claims that money belonging to the president was also stolen in the same incident, describing it as a spread of malicious information.

Geingob was known for his taste in fashion and the finer things in life.

One of former Cabinet minister and Fishrot accused Sacky Shanghala’s best memories was when Geingob bought him an Italian made Brioni suit in London.

“He treated me like his own child and bought me my first proper suit, a Brioni suit, which was very costly, from London and when I came to realise about the price later, I was very shocked,” he said.

In a tribute to Geingob, Otjozondjupa governor James Uerikua said Geingob taught the young people he took under his wing many things, including to dress smartly.

He said Geingob always told them: “Dress to kill.”

The Namibian contacted the station commander of Seeis Police Station, senior inspector Immanuel Nakale, where the police officer is allegedly detained, however, Nakale told The Namibian no such person was detained at the station.

“I am not aware of the guy you are talking about, however, there was an officer that appeared in court today, but not with that name,” he said.