Namibia’s CRAN orders Starlink to suspend operations due to unauthorized network use

According to industry reports, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has issued a cease and desist order against SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, ordering the company to immediately cease its operations within Namibian borders.

CRAN chief executive Emilia Nghikembua said in a statement that the decision was based on an investigation that uncovered Starlink’s unauthorized operation of a network in Namibia without a valid telecommunications license.

“The public is hereby discouraged from purchasing Starlink terminals or subscribing to its services as such activities are illegal under Namibian law,” she said.

According to Nghikembua, CRAN investigators have already confiscated illegal terminals from consumers and opened criminal cases with the Namibian police.

“CRAN remains committed to enforcing the Communications Act to ensure fair competition, consumer protection and compliance with regulatory requirements. We call on all service providers to adhere to the legal framework for the telecommunications sector in Namibia,” she said.

Nghikembua said Starlink had applied for a telecommunications services license but CRAN had not yet issued a license as the application was still under review.

“CRAN actively pursues legal action against individuals or companies that violate the Communications Act and reminds the public to refrain from importing or using Starlink services,” she said.