The Otjozondjupa Regional Council is facing a scandal after eight individuals were arrested in connection with the theft of drought relief food.

The suspects include a warehouse supervisor, Kavenandangi Ndjoze, and the Chief Administrative Officer, Dickson Kahuva, who is responsible for the Drought Relief Programme in the region. 

They were apprehended after a man was caught at a roadblock near Otavi with food allegedly stolen from the regional drought relief warehouse, which is operated from Otjiwarongo but based in Otavi.

"Those who were arrested are currently out on bail, and the matter is in the hands of the court. Now when we were having a council meeting last week, I queried why the issue wasn't on the agenda despite it happening in my constituency. I was told it was just an omission," said Otavi Constituency Councillor George !Garab.

He said it was crucial for the council to acknowledge the incident and take corrective measures.

In the meantime, the distribution of drought-relief food in the region continues.

"Anyone making the mistake of stealing drought relief food will be dealt with by law enforcement. This food is intended for vulnerable people, especially those in informal settlements who are facing a dire situation. We cannot afford to lose even one bag of maize meal to theft," said !Garab.

Their case has been postponed to the 29th of July.