Allexer Namundjembo
The extradition of a Namibian woman arrested in Zambia in October 2024, has been delayed.
The extradition of Chante Coetzee (38) was initially scheduled for 20 January 20.
Coetzee was apprehended in Zambia after fleeing Namibia in a stolen vehicle with a South African accomplice.
She is facing charges of theft and violations of Namibia’s Prevention of Organised Crime Act.
The pair is accused of crossing into Zambia between 24 June and 2 July 2024 using unofficial border entry points without the vehicle owner’s consent.
Zambian authorities confirmed Coetzee’s arrest on 18 October 2024, after an Interpol notice was issued for her capture.
The Zambian courts approved her extradition to Namibia shortly after, but the process encountered unexpected delays, pushing the transfer back by several days.
Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi confirmed the delay.
“The extradition was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. We are working closely with our counterparts in Zambia and Interpol to ensure that the transfer proceeds as smoothly as possible on the new date.”
Chief Inspector Hendricks Mulele, the investigating officer, said there are still matters requiring coordination between InterPol Namibia and Interpol Zambia.
He added that Coetzee allegedly rented a vehicle from Kuomboka Guesthouse and Rentals in Zambezi for the period 24 June 24 and 2 July 2024, to tour Namibia.
However, she reportedly crossed into Zambia without the vehicle owner’s consent, using unofficial entry points.
“We are still heavily engaged, but she is facing multiple charges, including vehicle theft and violations of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act in Namibia. Her extradition will greatly assist our ongoing investigations,” Mulele said.
