Otjiwarongo: A 39-year-old man, believed to be mentally challenged, was shot and killed by a police officer on Monday morning at Otjiwarongo.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Namibian Police Force's Head of Community Affairs in the Otjozondjupa Region, Senior Inspector Maureen Mbeha, reported that the incident occurred around 08h30 at a hiking point from Otjiwarongo to Outjo.

Mbeha stated that the police had received a report from community members about an allegedly mentally ill man who was causing disturbances at the Outjo taxi rank in Otjiwarongo. Upon arrival at the scene, officers encountered the man, who was reportedly armed with a panga and threatening the public.

During the intervention, the man allegedly advanced towards one of the officers at close range while wielding the panga, seemingly on the brink of an attack. Mbeha explained that the officer retreated and subsequently discharged his R5 firearm, striking the man in the head.

The victim was taken to the Otjiwarongo State Hospital, where he later died from his injuries while receiving medical treatment. Mbeha noted that the deceased's next of kin had not yet been informed of his death. The police officer involved in the shooting has not been arrested, as investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Police investigations continue.