Mondesa, Swakopmund – A 32-year-old man was fatally shot early in the morning an incident that happened on Mandume Ndemufayo Street, according to Chief Inspector Ileni Shapumba, spokesperson for the Erongo police.
The victim, identified as Simon Natangwe Shingenge, a Namibian male from Walvis Bay, was declared dead at the scene. The shooting occurred at approximately 00:20 while Shingenge and a companion were walking home from work.
Preliminary police investigations reveal that the two men were approached by three unknown male suspects. One of the suspects allegedly demanded a backpack from one of the men. When the demand was refused, the attackers reportedly drew knives and initiated a confrontation.
During the scuffle, the victim's companion, who is reported to have been legally armed, retrieved his licensed 9mm Fokarel pistol. Two of the attackers fled, but one persisted, leading the armed individual to fire a single shot. The bullet struck the attacker in the head, passing through his right ear, and he died on the spot.
The police have since arrested the man who fired the shot. He is currently in custody as investigations continue. “These investigations remain in the infant stage, and we call upon anyone with additional information that can aid the police in this investigation to please contact the police,” said Chief Inspector Shapumba.
The deceased's body has been transported to the Swakopmund State Hospital, where an autopsy will be conducted to confirm the exact cause of death.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety and the use of firearms in self-defense. Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds