Renthia Kaimbi
Okahandja activist Johannes /Gerub /Gâseb has asked the municipality to clarify the status of a N$50 000 reward pledged following the murders of Ingrid Maasdorp and Roswinds Fabianu, questioning whether the money was formally approved and how it will be distributed.
In a letter dated 15 October 2026 addressed to the Okahandja municipality’s chief executive officer Alphons Tjitombo, /Gâseb sought confirmation on whether the reward announced by former mayor Beatrice Kotungondo had been approved by council, budgeted for and remained valid following the arrest of the suspect, Karinambande Muundjua.
He also asked the municipality to clarify the status of additional pledges reportedly made by local businesses, the criteria for determining eligible beneficiaries and the process through which the money would be distributed.
The inquiry comes amid public calls for recognition of those who helped apprehend the suspect following the killings last year.
/Gâseb proposed that the municipality consider allocating residential plots to the two security guards involved in apprehending the suspect and, where appropriate, the two girls or their families as a lasting gesture of appreciation, subject to applicable laws and council approval.
He further proposed a public recognition event at the Okahandja Community Hall to acknowledge those involved and provide the community with an update on the reward initiative.
The activist said his inquiry was not intended to interfere with ongoing court proceedings but to promote transparency and accountability regarding the pledge.
Contacted for comment, Tjitombo told the Windhoek Observer that a response would be given once council had pronounced itself on the matter.
Photo: Contributed
#WindhoekObserver
