Journalists, investigators face threats in Shiweda murder, Sanlam fraud cases

Police say investigators, journalists and witnesses are facing threats, intimidation and attempts to obstruct ongoing investigations into the murder of prosecutor Justine Shiweda and a multimillion-dollar Sanlam fraud scheme.

The murder investigation follows the fatal attack on Shiweda, who was shot and doused with acid outside her home in October 2025 while preparing to take her children to school.

She died in February after months in hospital.

Six suspects have been arrested in connection with the case, including former police officer Abner Mateus, who police accuse of masterminding the attack after Shiweda opposed his release on bail in another criminal matter. The accused have denied the allegations.

The Sanlam Namibia investigation centres on an alleged syndicate accused of using fraudulent medical records and other documents to claim insurance benefits amounting to nearly N$2 million.

Police have so far arrested at least 20 suspects, including medical professionals, former and current Sanlam employees and several civilians.

The accused face charges ranging from fraud, theft, forgery and corruption to money laundering and violations of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.

Oshana regional police commander Commissioner Andreas Shipingana Shilelo confirmed last week that authorities are aware of threats directed at investigators, journalists, witnesses and other persons connected to the cases.

Shilelo warned that police would act decisively against anyone attempting to obstruct the course of justice.

“We remain committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served,” Shilelo said, adding that the threats against investigators are not uncommon in criminal investigations but stressed that police take any attempt to interfere with investigations seriously.

“Whoever is trying to obstruct the course of justice will be taken on," he said.

"A threat can be classified as obstruction of justice. Whoever is involved, regardless of who they are, is committing a crime," he added.

Shilelo added that any journalist who has experienced verbal threats while covering proceedings at the Ondangwa Magistrate's Court should visit his office to report the matter.

‘Watch your back’

This writer is among journalists who have been threatened by suspects in the course of covering ongoing court proceedings.

The threats were received on at least three occasions at the Ondangwa Magistrate's Court – two in the presence of police.

In one instance an accused called out the reporter's name from a police vehicle.

"You, Tuyeimo," the suspect said. "You should be careful and watch your back."

As more suspects were arrested in connection with the case, the threats continued. One accused told this writer in the presence of police and other journalists: "The girl from Namibian Sun should be careful. We will not be in jail forever."

The suspect complained that an article she had written had been unbalanced and the photographs exposed them unfairly.

Decisive response

Shilelo warned that drastic action would follow threats.

“People should desist from giving threats because they themselves will become subjects of investigation. Whatever the level of the threat, we should take it seriously because people's lives are at stake and a life was lost,” he said.

He said police officers are trained to handle intimidation and threats and underlined that threats would not deter investigators from their duties.

“The investigation is ongoing. It is a lengthy investigation and we cannot provide updates because we need to protect the integrity of the process. Investigators must make sure everyone linked to the matter is reached and no stone is left unturned,” he said.

Namibian Sun has learned that members of the investigative team have received complaints alleging harassment and misconduct.

Authorities believe some of the accusations and intimidation tactics are intended to discredit investigators and derail investigations that have already resulted in arrests and court appearances.

Concerned members of the public fear that if such campaigns succeed, they could compromise critical investigations and undermine efforts to bring those allegedly responsible to justice.

Despite the pressure, investigators have reportedly remained committed to pursuing the cases.