Mass seal genital theft at Henties Bay

The Henties Bay police are investigating a break-in at a seal-processing factory where about 3 000 pieces of seal genitals were stolen along with factory equipment.

The value of the stolen goods are about N$1 million.

The incident took place at the seal factory at Henties Bay at around 05h00 on Thursday.

Erongo police senior inspector Judith Shomongula says the suspects broke into an office at the factory by removing the door.

“It is alleged that an unknown suspect or suspects removed the office door to gain entry, and stole processed animal products and electronic equipment,” she says.

Among the stolen property are 2 225 pieces of small genitals, 696 pieces of bull genitals, and a laptop with its hard drive.

Shomongula says the combined value of the stolen property is estimated at N$950 000.

She says the stolen animal products form part of commercial seal product processing, which is typically sold to specialised export markets.

None of the stolen property has been recovered, and there have been no arrest so far.

“Police investigations are ongoing,” Shomongula says.

The factory manager reported the matter shortly after workers discovered the break-in.

The police are urging anyone with information to contact the nearest police station or report it anonymously through community policing channels.

The authorities are also encouraged businesses in the industrial area to review their security measures, as similar thefts have been reported at coastal towns in recent years.

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