The Hidden Risks of Diamonds: Namdia Robbery Claims Two Lives

Four robbers rob Namib Desert Diamonds office The Hidden Risks of Diamonds: Namdia Robbery Claims Two Lives. News

The diamond industry faces constant risks, as shown by a recent armed robbery at Namib Desert Diamonds in Namibia. Two employees, including the head of security, were killed, and diamonds were stolen. Authorities continue their investigation, highlighting the sector’s security challenges.

Posted on January 22, 2025

The diamond industry has long been considered as risky and the reason is obvious — precious stones are a top target for criminals. The industry faces constant challenges in protecting its resources and people. And, unfortunately, each year, there are dozens of sophisticated smuggling operations and hundreds of daring armed robberies.

The year started with a case that shocked everyone at Namdia Desert Diamonds. A sales and marketing company owned by the Namibian government lost two of their employees in the armed heist. Among those killed was Francis “Gosh” Eiseb, Namdia’s head of security, who bravely tried to prevent the intrusion.

Not only did the suspects manage to escape but also take some diamonds with them. Namdia, which sources 15% of its stones from Namdeb — a joint venture between De Beers and the Namibian government — has yet to determine the exact value of the stolen gems.

The company said four people took part in the robbery and two of them are hiding from the police. Officers caught one suspect, while the second died of a self-inflicted gunshot during the attack. Namibian authorities ask anyone who has any helpful information to contact the police without delay.

Namdia and the Namibian police are planning a press conference soon to share more details about the robbery and explain how they’re going to apprehend the responsible.

The incident highlights that the diamond industry has many hidden risks, including the challenges of protecting such valuable property. Although companies work on improving security, incidents like this happen and remind us that not everything can be foreseen or prevented. Regions like Namibia, where diamonds play a significant role in the economy, really prioritize safety of employees and assets. However, no one can guarantee that such things won’t happen in the future.