National Squash Champion Linked to Namdia Heist, Dies Following Tragic Incident. Max Endjala, a national squash player and financial auditor, was found injured at the scene of a diamond heist at Namib Desert Diamonds (Namdia) on Saturday.
Endjala, who had held the title of Namibia’s number-one squash player for several years, later died from his injuries in the hospital. He represented Namibia at the South African Country Districts squash tournament in Limpopo, South Africa, in May last year.
Authorities allege that Endjala may have attempted suicide as police closed in to apprehend suspects involved in the robbery. His exact connection to the heist is under investigation, and the police have called on the public to provide any information.
NamPol deputy inspector general of operations Elias Mutota confirmed the arrest of a Namdia security officer connected to Endjala. While one suspect is in custody, two others remain at large. Residents near the Namdia premises reported seeing a black Mercedes with Angolan license plates fleeing the scene after gunshots were heard.
The robbery, which took place at Namdia’s Windhoek offices on Saturday evening, also claimed the life of 57-year-old senior protection officer Francois Eiseb. Four armed robbers stormed the premises, held employees at gunpoint, tied them up, and escaped with an undisclosed quantity of diamonds.
Eiseb was found in a storeroom with his hands and legs tied, a shopping bag over his head, and a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Former Namdia CEO Kennedy Hamutenya expressed his grief over Eiseb’s death, describing it as a senseless tragedy. “It’s hard to comprehend this cold-blooded murder of a father and husband who was at work providing for his family. His life was taken so violently,” Hamutenya said.
He remembered Eiseb as a hardworking and dedicated employee who always exceeded expectations. “He was one of the most committed employees and would go beyond his duties, even volunteering to drive clients to the airport to ensure their safety. He was respectful, kind, and diligent,” Hamutenya added.
Eiseb joined Namdia in February 2019 and was highly regarded for his professionalism.Namdia CEO Alisa Amupolo praised Eiseb’s bravery, saying, “Mr. Eiseb valiantly defended against the robbers, sacrificing his life while on duty.”
The Mine Workers Union of Namibia also mourned Eiseb’s death, acknowledging his role as chairperson of Namdia’s branch. “His dedication and commitment have left a lasting impact on our organization and everyone who worked with him,” the union stated.