OTJIWARONGO: A 32-year-old member of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) was shot dead by two unknown armed thugs here yesterday evening.

Namibian Police Force (NamPol) Otjozondjupa Regional Crime Investigations’ Coordinator, Deputy Commissioner Moses Khairabeb confirmed the shooting to Nampa this morning.

Khairabeb said the deceased, Epafras Joy de Celestino, was walking alone in the D. Useb Street behind the People’s Corner Complex in the Orwetoveni residential area at about 22h10, when two armed men demanded to search his pockets.

It seems de Celestino refused to be searched, which led to one of the robbers pulling out a pistol and shooting him twice at close range.

No arrest has yet been made, and police investigations continue.

Family members of the deceased have been already informed, said Khairabeb.

GOBABIS; Namibian parents should break away from traditions and cultures that view it as taboo to talk to their children on issues pertaining to sex, as such information could end up saving their children’s lives.

First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba made the call here yesterday, when she consulted with religious and traditional leaders on maternal health-related issues.

She said that as much as they all need to honour their cultures and traditions and abide by them, they also ought to face reality and admit that some of these cultures do then more harm than good.

Pohamba said talking to children, especially the girl-child, about their fears, concerns and views on sex helps build a stronger bond between the children and their parents, and such children are less bound to make silly mistakes.

The First Lady noted that as much as parents share the same dreams of securing the best possible future for their children, it can be devastating to both parents and children if they become pregnant, and drop out of school with little or no formal qualification.