Becker’s contract extended beyond retirement

Namibian Police Commissioner Nelius Becker, one of the country’s most decorated detectives, will remain in his post beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60, Inspector General Joseph Shikongo has confirmed.

Shikongo told Namibian Sun this week that Becker’s contract will be extended by one year, until March 2027, while a successor is identified.

“We are not going to advertise his position upon retirement. I am extending his contract for another year while we get a replacement. His replacement will be done through internal recruitment,” Shikongo said.

Becker, who heads the National Forensic Science Institute of Namibia (NFSI), turns 60 on Friday — the official retirement age for public servants.

A function is expected to be held at the NFSI headquarters to mark the milestone.

Becker has welcomed the extension, describing it as an opportunity to continue contributing to the institution he has helped shape.

He said stepping away from a lifelong career in policing is not always easy, particularly for those who remain active and committed to public service.

“It was a relief to be asked to remain in my position. Despite reaching retirement age, I still feel energetic and capable of contributing meaningfully,” he said.

Having dedicated decades to law enforcement, Becker noted that retirement can be daunting, especially for officers whose lives have been defined by service.

“As a police officer and civil servant, I believe it is my duty to assist where needed,” he added.

Shikongo explained that positions at this level are not typically advertised publicly, with appointments usually made internally — a practice he said has long been standard.

He pointed to Becker’s own appointment to head the NFSI as an example.

“If you look at the way he was appointed, he did not apply for it. The former inspector general simply appointed him,” Shikongo said.

Career marked by high-profile cases

Becker’s career spans some of Namibia’s most high-profile criminal investigations. He rose through the ranks to lead the Namibian Police’s Serious Crime Unit before moving to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), where he served as chief of investigation and prosecution.

In August 2019, he returned to the Namibian Police to head the Criminal Investigations Directorate. Within two months, he led the arrests of former ministers Sacky Shanghala and Bernhard Esau in the Fishrot corruption scandal — one of Namibia’s largest graft cases.

He was also involved in aspects of investigations linked to the cross-border Phala Phala saga, particularly in tracing financial flows and possible Namibian connections, contributing to cooperation between Namibian and South African authorities.

Despite his investigative successes, Becker’s tenure at the helm of criminal investigations was short-lived. In 2020, he was controversially transferred to lead the NFSI — a move some linked to his push for further Fishrot-related arrests, although authorities denied this.

Reflecting on his career, Becker said his greatest pride lies not only in the cases he handled, but in the people he mentored.

“While I have encountered many memorable cases, my greatest satisfaction comes from seeing those I have worked with succeed. Many have gone on to occupy top positions, and I am proud to have instilled motivation and passion in them,” he said.

Focus on transition and legacy

Looking ahead, Becker said his priority during the extension period will be to conclude outstanding investigations and ensure a smooth transition for his successor.

He emphasised that the NFSI is now a well-established institution that must be maintained and further strengthened.

“My successor will inherit a fully functional and improved institute, which must be maintained at a high standard. It is crucial to adapt to new technologies and sustain infrastructure,” he said.

Becker added that leading the NFSI requires a rare combination of technical expertise and leadership ability.

The role oversees multiple specialised divisions, including genetics, chemistry, physics, digital forensics, forensic pathology, crime scene investigations, and the criminal records bureau — demanding both scientific knowledge and operational experience.