Starlink operations halted in Namibia for lacking licence

Public warned against subscribing to Starlink in Namibia.

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Namibia’s communications regulator has ordered Starlink, operated by SpaceX, to cease its operations in the country. The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) stated that the company was running a telecommunications network without the required licence.

A cease-and-desist order was issued on 26 November, demanding that Starlink immediately halt all activities. CRAN has also advised the public against purchasing or subscribing to Starlink services, warning that these actions are illegal under Namibian law.

Investigators have already confiscated unlicensed terminals from consumers and have opened criminal cases with the police. The regulator emphasised its commitment to enforcing compliance with national telecommunications regulations.

Earlier this year, Cameroon faced a similar situation, seizing equipment at ports due to licence violations. SpaceX has yet to comment on the developments in Namibia.