Staff Reporter
NAMIB Desert Diamonds (Pty) Ltd (NAMDIA) has announced that, to date, diamonds valued at N$40.6 million have been recovered out of the total N$314.9 million stolen in a diamond heist at the state diamond enterprise on 18 January 2025.
Beverley Coussement, Public Relations & Communications Officer, said that the Namibian Police Force continues to lead investigations into the incident and that 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. The police continue their diligent efforts, with two 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,” Coussement said.
She added that while specific details related to security improvements cannot be shared for security reasons, significant enhancements have been made to strengthen the company’s protective measures.
“Some upgrades were put in 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 implemented in accordance with international best practices to safeguard NAMDIA’s staff, products, and premises. The company reassures stakeholders 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,” Coussement said.
She added that NAMDIA continues to support its staff following this tragic incident, providing ongoing individual and group counselling.
“Employee 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. 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,” Coussement said.
She further said that 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. With her leadership, NAMDIA remains focused on stabilising its operations, reinforcing stakeholder confidence, and ensuring the company’s mandate is upheld during this challenging period. The Board has full confidence in her ability to steer the company forward while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and excellence,” Coussement said.
Picture for illustrative purposes only.
