Oshikoto police smoking out drug dealers

In a strong response to public allegations implicating members of the police drug squad in collusion with drug dealers, the Oshikoto police have stepped up operations to root out drug-related crimes in the region.Over the weekend, two suspects - a 19-year-old and a 25-year-old - were arrested in Tsumeb’s Kuvukiland informal settlement after being found in possession of various drugs with an estimated street value exceeding N$30,000. They were also found with an undisclosed amount of cash, suspected to be the proceeds of drug trafficking.The arrests were carried out at around 07:00 on Saturday during an intelligence-led operation by the police’s drug enforcement division.These arrests come just weeks after a 26-year-old was apprehended in Nomtsoub, Tsumeb, with cocaine valued at N$4,000 found at his residence.According to Oshikoto regional police commander, Commissioner Teopolina Nashikaku, the reported arrests represent just the major busts, with a significant number of smaller drug dealers also taken into custody in recent weeks.Nashikaku acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations implicating police officers in drug operations and said the force took immediate action to protect its integrity.“It’s a sting operation - an intelligence-led effort,” she said. “We had to act swiftly after receiving reports that some police officers may be in the pockets of drug dealers. That’s something we do not take lightly.”She referred to previous media reports suggesting police involvement in drug-related activities and said this triggered internal meetings and the implementation of new operational mechanisms to tackle both the drug trade and public perception.“If the community raises these concerns, we have a duty to act. That’s why we launched these operations - to send a clear message that we are serious about fighting drugs, and to restore public confidence in our officers.”Nashikaku credited the community for playing a crucial role in providing information that led to the arrests, though she encouraged people to report suspected criminal activity before it affects their families directly.“We often find that people only come forward when a relative has already fallen victim to drugs. But to truly win this war, everyone must act early and responsibly.”She concluded by urging continued cooperation between the public and law enforcement.“The police cannot fight this battle alone. We appreciate the informants who have come forward, and we urge others to do the same. Together, we can protect our communities.”

Oshikoto police smoking out drug dealers

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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Oshikoto police smoking out drug dealers

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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