Attempted Bribery of NamRA Official Results in Arrest of Two Suspects
The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) has successfully thwarted an attempt to bribe one of its officials, leading to the arrest of two foreign nationals in Windhoek. The joint operation, conducted by NamRA and the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC), resulted in the apprehension of a Chinese male at the NamRA offices on Monday and an Angolan female at the ACC premises the following day.
The suspects are accused of offering a bribe amounting to N$50,000.00 to a NamRA staff member. Their intentions were allegedly to influence the release of N$6 million, belonging to a trading entity whose identity is currently withheld, as the funds were subjected to intervention, or freezing.
The arrested individuals are set to face legal proceedings in the Magistrates Court as the investigation unfolds.
In an unrelated matter, a male suspect was also apprehended today in Walvis Bay on multiple charges, including fraud, tax evasion, racketeering, and money laundering, under CR No. 52.07.2023. The alleged contraventions involved a significant sum of N$14.2 million. The suspect is expected to appear in court soon to face the charges brought against him.
NamRA, in its dedication to upholding transparency and accountability, reaffirms its zero-tolerance approach towards corruption, whether involving taxpayers or staff members. The agency remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the nation’s revenue collection processes and ensuring that all dealings are conducted within the bounds of the law.
The successful apprehension of these individuals serves as a stern warning to those attempting to undermine the principles of fair and just financial practices in Namibia. The collaborative efforts between NamRA and the ACC demonstrate the government’s determination to combat corruption and promote a culture of compliance and honesty in all financial matters.
