Kavango west: The Kavango West police arrested nine suspects on Wednesday in connection with three separate rape cases involving minors, while one suspect remains on the run. Namibian Police Force (NamPol) Regional Commander, Commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo, told Nampa on Wednesday the arrests stem from incidents that occurred between September and October.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the largest arrest operation involved eight suspects aged 13 to 18 who were apprehended following the alleged gang rape of a 14-year-old girl at Kayira-yira village on 27 September 2025. All eight suspects were arrested on Wednesday, and some who are minors will be released into the care of their parents, Sakuwa-Neo confirmed.

The commissioner also reported that a 25-year-old builder working at a local school was arrested following a 19 October 2025 incident where he allegedly assaulted a 14-year-old girl in his tent. The police are looking for a second man who works at the same school who allegedly committed a similar offence against another 14-year-old girl.

The commissioner stated that the cases have exposed vulnerabilities in child protection, particularly at education facilities where minors should be safe. Police investigations are ongoing.