ACC investigates N$2.5 million fraud at government garage

Officials are suspected of ordering spare parts that were never fitted to government vehicles. This investigation is part of a broader probe into suspected corruption at government garages, which has uncovered inflated spare-part prices, excessive repair bills, payments for undelivered goods, and government vehicles allegedly diverted to private garages without proper records. ACC deputy director Erna van der Merwe confirmed the investigation is at an advanced stage, stating the complaint was received in October 2024.

Works and Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi has ordered an employee accused of fraud at the government garage to be removed from procurement duties and all positions of authority while investigations continue. The Namibian understands one employee, transferred from Keetmanshoop to Swakopmund, is under investigation for allegedly ordering vehicle parts that were never installed. Authorities suspect the theft of vehicle parts and misuse of government vehicles may be widespread within the government garage system.

Nekundi stated he became aware of the employee's transfer to the coast on June 23 after being contacted by The Namibian and immediately directed the employee's removal from positions of authority, a directive that also applies to other implicated employees at the Windhoek Government Garage.