Students Association demands justice for slain Okahandja girl

By: Selma Taapopi

The National African Students Association (NASA) Khomas Region secretary Shalom Shivolo said delays in solving criminal cases enable perpetrators to continue committing crimes.

NASA comments come after five-year-old girl Ingrid Maasdorp was raped and murdered in Okahandja in March. The body of the Grade 0 learner was discovered in a riverbed under a bridge.

The perpetrator remains at large. Police spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi said there are no new developments in Maasdorp’s case, but investigations continue.

Shivolo called for urgency in cases involving minors.

As a result, NASA plans to hold a nationwide protest demanding accountability and transparency in the investigation of Maarsdorp’s case.

Maasdorp was a learner at KW von Marees Combined School and was reported missing on Thursday, 20 March 2025.

NASA Khomas Regional Chairperson Matheus is concerned about the progress of the investigation into Maasdorp’s case.

Maasdorp’s father, 28-year-old Shaun Richard Gaobab, called for harsher punishments, adding that this could serve as a deterrent against crimes committed against children.

Ingrid’s aunt, Estee Markya Maarsdorp, said Ingrid was usually picked up from school at 12:00. However, on the day of her disappearance, the school had reportedly released learners two hours early, at 10:00 without informing Ingrid’s family.