The Namibian Revenue Agency (NAMRA) has said that illegal payments of tax refunds over $666,000 between January and April 2025 resulted in illegal payments to 47 taxpayers.
This is linked to the mass tax refund initiative currently underway, said Stephen Jarqueklo Ndrokaze, a spokesman for Namra.
“To date, Namura staff have been suspended, but the secondment of Ministry of Finance officials has been reversed.
“Internal investigations reveal that recently registered taxpayers, primarily unemployed people who have no tax liability, were fraudulently processed for refunds related to a period dating back to 2011,” he says.
Ndorokaze also states that in most cases registration is made without the knowledge of the parties involved, without the use of identity documents and personal bank details.
He added that refunds were paid and money was distributed to the perpetrators via mobile and wallet banking platforms.
“In light of these developments, Namura is keen to exercise vigilance and be vigilant to not provide personal bank details or identification to third parties for tax-related transactions.”
“The agency emphasizes that tax refunds will be processed directly through the NAMRA office and approved platforms. NAMRA remains steadfast in supporting the highest standards of zero tolerance, integrity, transparency and public trust against corruption, and reiterates its commitment to eradicating fraud that undermines tax management.
