Kavango West police urges community to report serious crimes

Namibian Police Chief Inspector of the Kavango West Region Raimbert Muronga has called on the community to report serious crimes such as rape and murder. Last week, Muronga told Namibian Sun that the police rely heavily on the community to report crimes, while adding that there is often confusion about what and when to report certain crimes, such as rape.“The region is currently facing a significant challenge in crime, which includes theft, assault, murder and rape," he said.Chief concernsMuronga said rape is a major concern in the region, adding that they also face challenges with teenage pregnancies, "often arising from rape, where young girls are victimised by elders in our region."He said police records show that rapes in our region "are often associated with family or household incidents. We are working hard through community engagements, creating platforms at all our stations to speak with communities, educate them and encourage them not to conceal such crimes.”The chief inspector said many crimes occur inland, in towns, and particularly in Nkurenkuru.“However, our efforts as law enforcement officers are very clear, and we are ready for any eventuality. Our goal is to be on the ground, ensuring that the region is safe for society and any visitors to the region. While I cannot point to a crime of particular concern at the moment, we treat every crime seriously, regardless of its frequency or timing."Be alertMuronga also expressed concerns over house and vehicle break-ins."Criminals are now targeting vehicles parked in yards or outside house yards. In Nkurenkuru, some community members feel it is safer than other towns and park their vehicles outside, leading to more break-ins. We are really concerned about this because Nkurenkuru is an upcoming town, and as the population grows, so do these opportunities for crime," he said.He also spoke on the frequent arrests of repeat offenders, including those out on bail from other towns. "Some criminals think Nkurenkuru is a haven, but we are aware of this. Our members are always on the ground, and we have crime prevention strategies, conducting operations weekly, monthly and sometimes following national operation orders from the Office of the Inspector General," he added.He said livestock theft has also reached "alarming" levels."People tend to steal animals or cattle from farms and sometimes drive them across the border to Angola, which is very close. We have secured all modalities, and our stations are operational throughout the day and night. We will leave no stone unturned in addressing crime," he said.nikanor@erongo.com.na

Kavango West police urges community to report serious crimes

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-07

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Kavango West police urges community to report serious crimes

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-07

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