According to regional police, Brook is accused of inappropriately touching several children and photographing them without clothing. Authorities say he targeted 34 minors—16 teenage girls and 14 boys—during his visit, which began last week.
Local media report that Brook faces a total of 38 charges, including rape, indecent assault, and child exploitation. Photographic evidence was reportedly found on his camera, which has been confiscated by police.
The suspect appeared in the Grootfontein Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where he was denied bail. The case has been postponed to next month, pending further investigation, according to the Namibia Press Agency.
Namibia's Information Minister, Emma Theofelus, confirmed that the accused remains in police custody. The UK embassy in Namibia has not commented beyond acknowledging the reports in local media.
The incident has sparked outrage across the country. The Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism condemned the actions, calling them a violation of the cultural dignity of the San people.
“It is unacceptable for any visitor, foreign or local, to exploit or objectify indigenous communities or their children for any purpose, including photography,” the ministry stated.
Namibia, renowned for its dramatic desert landscapes and cultural diversity, is a popular destination for international tourists. This incident has reignited national discussions about the ethical responsibilities of visitors, particularly in interactions with vulnerable communities.
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