Sheeefeni Nikodemus
22 March 2011
Laurentius Humphries, the owner of the Humphries Security Company, died on Saturday.
Humphries, who had been entrusted with the safety of supporters, match officials and players at football matches for over 20 years, reportedly suffered an “asthma-induced cardiac arrest” during halftime of the abandoned Namibia Premier League match between Orlando Pirates and Blue Boys at the Sam Nujoma Stadium.
Paramedics at the stadium tried to resuscitate him before rushing him to the Katutura State Hospital where he was declared dead upon arrival.
Humphries (51), a former military man, commanded respect and was renowned for his no-nonsense attitude towards troublemakers at local and international matches alike.
Acting NPL CEO Tovey Hoëbeb described him as “a calm man” and “a perfectionist”.
“It is a big loss to Namibian football,” said Hoëbeb.
The Namibia Football Association also expressed it’s shock at the news of Humphries’ death.
“The NFA President, Executive Committee members, staff, members and the entire football family in Namibia express our heartfelt shock and dismay about the death of Mr Laurentius Humphries,” read a statement from NFA media officer Dan Kamati yesterday.
“His vision and passion for the ultimate and reliable security at football venues is unrivalled and he will be missed dearly by all,” he added.
“We wish his family, relatives, friends and the entire football family God’s strength during their mourning period.”
Humphries is survived by his daughter.
His memorial service is set for March 31 at the St Augustine Roman Catholic Church in Soweto at 07h00, with the burial planned for April 2.
AllAfrica – All the Time
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Namibia: Football Shaken By Humphries’ Death