After weeks of silence on the armed robbery that took place at the Namib Desert Diamonds (NAMDIA) on 18 January 2025, the company has now confirmed that diamonds worth N$314.9 million were stolen during the robbery.
And so far, only diamonds valued at N$40.6 million have been recovered.
In a statement, NAMDIA said that the Namibian Police continues to lead investigations into the incident and significant progress has been made in the recovery efforts.
“NAMDIA remains committed to supporting the ongoing investigation and is hopeful that additional recoveries will be made,” said NAMDIA in a statement released by the company’s spokesperson Ms Beverley Coussement.
“The police continue their diligent efforts, with two (2) arrested suspects scheduled to appear in court on 23 May 2025.
“Strengthening security remains a primary focus, and NAMDIA is fully committed to preventing any recurrence of such incidents.”
While specific details related to the company’s security improvements cannot be shared for security reasons, “significant enhancements have been made to strengthen the company’s protective measures.
“Some upgrades were put into place immediately following the incident, while others are being executed with urgency.
“In doing so, NAMDIA followed the Public Procurement Act (PPA), which permits NAMDIA as a public entity to procure services in response to this critical situation.
“Safety measures and upgrades have also been done in accordance with international best practices to safeguard NAMDIA’s staff, product and premises.”
NAMDIA further said that its security protocols, systems and processes remain robust and continue to evolve to mitigate emerging threats.
“At the same time, NAMDIA continues to engage its insurance providers on matters relating to the robbery with discussions ongoing, as part of its broader risk management efforts.”
NAMDIA continues to support its staff following the robbery incident, where one of its employees died, providing ongoing individual and group counselling.
“Employees well-being remains a top priority, and NAMDIA is committed to offering resources to aid in their healing and recovery.
“Furthermore, NAMDIA undertook essential repairs to the premises to address the damage incurred during the robbery, ensuring a safe and secure working environment.
“As a result, staff successfully returned to the office in full on Monday, 3 March 2025, after working remotely since 20 January 2025.”
NAMDIA said that these measures reflect the organisation’s commitment to prioritising both the physical and emotional well-being of its employees while fostering a stable and supportive workplace.
NAMDIA’s independent internal probe into the robbery is ongoing.
“While the investigation remains active, the Board has taken decisive action by appointing a Security Consultant to stabilise the security department and oversee the immediate execution of critical security enhancements.
“The temporary suspension of CEO Ms. Alisa Amupolo, COO Mr. Uahoroka Kauta, and Security Manager Mr. Paulinus Sheyapo remains in place to ensure a thorough and impartial internal investigation.
“At this stage, there is no reason to believe that any staff members, apart from the Protection Officer already arrested, were involved in the robbery.
“Ms. Lelly Usiku continues as interim CEO to lead not only the continuity of NAMDIA’s operations but also the company’s recovery from the impact of the heist.”
In the photo: Acting CEO for NAMDIA Ms Lelly Usiku.
