Alleged Diamond Smugglers Linked to NAMDIA Heist Await Further Investigation
By TUW
Police investigations into a high-profile diamond trafficking case have prompted the Keetmanshoop Magistrate’s Court to defer proceedings involving three Namibian nationals until November 4, 2025. The postponement aims to allow law enforcement officials more time to gather crucial evidence.
The accused, George Cloete, his wife Charmaine Cloete, and his brother Bino Cloete are currently facing two serious charges: alleged contraventions of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA), and the illegal trade of precious stones in violation of the Diamond Act.
Authorities suspect that the trio trafficked and sold diamonds in Port Nolloth, South Africa. The illicit stones are reportedly linked to a major robbery at the Namibia Desert Diamonds (NAMDIA) offices, in which diamonds worth millions of Namibian dollars were stolen.
The trio was arrested in early August following a noticeable shift to a lavish lifestyle shortly after the NAMDIA diamond heist in January 2025.
The case has drawn national attention due to the suspected cross-border nature of the crimes and the high value of the stolen gems. All three suspects remain under police watch as investigations continue.
