The Namibian Police, together with other mourners, joined the family of the late Police Chief Inspector Riche Karel ||Naobeb in Otjiwarongo to lay him to rest.

||Naobeb, who was the Head of NamPol's VVIP Presidential Escort Division, died last week while on an official mission in Rundu, aged 49.

The late ||Naobeb, affectionately known as Oume Bon, was born on a farm about 10 kilometres outside Otjiwarongo.

He served as NamPol's Head of the Presidential Escort Subdivision in the Office of the President from 2022 until his death on the 24th of August this year.

The late ||Naobeb previously also led the Prime Ministerial and Parliamentary Protection Subdivisions in the force.

Family members described his death as painful, saying they are left with unanswered questions.

"He left his house, strong and young, and returns in a coffin. No one shall come and convince me that my nephew's death was God's will. We want to remember him for the joy…he brought into our lives…the laughter, the kindness and the smile that made him unforgettable," said his uncle, Mistake !Hoaeb.

His former colleagues from the VIP directorate described him as a reliable colleague.

"The late Chief Inspector ||Naobeb was a dutiful police officer who had an interest in his colleagues and the people he was serving at heart. He was an exemplary and professional police officer who always had a smile on his face," said Deputy Commissioner Ndapewoshali-Nelao Kakololo.

The Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, as well as the Inspector General of the Namibian Police, was represented at the funeral by Commissioner Moritz !Naruseb, Head of the Criminal Investigation Directorate.

"His service will not be forgotten; his legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. May you find comfort knowing that his life's work has left an integral mark on the ministry, on his colleagues and on the people of Namibia."

The late ||Naobeb is survived by his wife, Theresia, two children and a grandchild.