On April 11 around 6:00 p.m., an attempted credit card theft involving a Japanese national occurred at an ATM in Marua Mall, a shopping mall located in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia.
1. Incident Overview
While using an ATM inside Marua Mall—commonly frequented by both local Japanese residents and travelers—a Japanese individual was approached by two unknown men. The suspects tried to steal the credit card, but the victim quickly called for help. Employees from nearby stores rushed to the scene, prompting the suspects to flee. According to the store staff, the two men had been seen loitering near the ATMs earlier that morning, likely scouting for potential targets.
2. Precautions and Reporting
Crimes of this nature occur frequently in Namibia. Japanese residents and travelers are strongly advised not to respond casually to strangers speaking to them, especially while using ATMs. Please also reconsider the time and location when using ATMs.
If you are involved in a theft or other crime, ensure your safety first and promptly report the incident to the police. You should also request a “Police Report” or official certificate of the incident from the nearest police station.
3. Contact Information – Tourist Protection Unit (Namibian Police)
If you are a traveler and fall victim to a crime, you can contact the following numbers for assistance, regardless of where the incident occurred. When calling, please provide your nationality, name, time and location of the incident, and a description of what happened.
- Officer 1: +264 81 259 6425 / +264 81 615 4401
- Officer 2: +264 81 474 7414
- Officer 3: +264 81 252 7017
- Officer 4: +264 81 147 8663
4. Contact Information for Regional Police Stations
- Erongo Region: 064-219025
- Oshikoto Region: 067-2235033
- Oshana Region: 065-2236006
- Otjozondjupa Region: 067-300600
- Ohangwena Region: 065-264208
- Omaheke Region: 062-566100
- Omusati Region: 065-251864
- Karas Region: 063-221800
- Kunene Region: 065-273148
- Khomas Region: 061-2094439
- Zambezi Region: 066-251233
- Hardap Region: 063-345036
- Kavango East Region: 066-266300
- Kavango West Region: 066-264877
Please remain alert and cautious when using ATMs, and do not hesitate to seek help or report any suspicious activity.
