81-Year-Old Pensioner Arrested in Usakos for Possession of Illicit Tobacco
By Aneli Fura
Police in Usakos arrested an 81-year-old woman on Sunday after she was found in possession of nearly 2,500 packets of illicit cigarettes valued at close to N$100,000.
According to the Namibian Police, the arrest took place during a routine patrol and stop-and-search operation near the Bistro Restaurant along the B2 road. Officers intercepted a white Quantum minibus traveling from Oshakati to Henties Bay and discovered 2,495 packets of Yes cigarettes concealed inside bags. The contraband is estimated to be worth N$99,800.
The suspect, identified as Rusia Ugwanga, a pensioner, was taken into custody and appeared before the Usakos Magistrate’s Court today. She was granted bail of N$5,000, and the case has been postponed to 10 November 2025 for further investigation.
Authorities continue to urge the public to refrain from engaging in the sale or transport of illicit goods, stressing that such activities undermine the economy and public health.
