Police confirm common assault case involving editor

National police spokesperson deputy commissioner Kauna Shikwambi has confirmed that a woman (30) opened a case of common assault against a local newspaper editor on Tuesday.

“The two are allegedly in a relationship,” Shikwambi said yesterday.

She said the incident allegedly took place on 1 April, and a case of common assault was opened at Otjomuise Police Station.

“An argument arose at a residence at Khomasdal between the two people, leading to a fight. No arrest has been made, and police investigations continue,” Shikwambi said.

The Namibia Media Professionals Union (Nampu) expressed its outrage over the alleged assault of a radio journalist by the newspaper editor in a statement released by acting secretary general Jemima Beukes yesterday.

This comes after the editor allegedly pulled out two of his girlfriend’s braids, twisted her arm and punched her jaw.

According to reports by other media houses, the woman has been in a relationship with the editor for a year, and later realised that he is possessive and jealous.

It has been reported that the argument started over an April Fools’ Day joke between the two.

It is also alleged that this is not the first time the woman has been assaulted by the editor, however, it is the first time she has laid charges.

“Nampu has consistently raised serious concerns about violence against women in the local newsroom, and is appalled by this incident,” Beukes said.

The union says it is disturbed by the allegation that the suspect has repeatedly engaged in such behaviour.

“Nampu demands that the perpetrator be brought to justice and face the full wrath of the law,” Beukes said.

Furthermore, she said that such reprehensible actions do not have a place in society, let alone the media industry, which should serve as a safe and respectful space for all professionals.

Nampu commended the alleged victim for her courage in speaking out and extended its full support of and solidarity with her.