Police urges responsible behaviour this festive season

Inspector Ileni Shapumba, the head of community policing in the Erongo Region, said while the police are ready to intensify patrols to ensure public safety this festive season, it is also up to members of the public to act responsibly and exercise caution at all times.

According to him, the police will not be able to combat crime effectively in the region without public assistance.

"This is why we need the public themselves to be vigilant, alert and to take immediate action about any suspicious movements or persons in your locality. Report that person immediately to the police. Over the years, we have noticed an increase in criminal activities during the festive season. Hence, we would like to remind members of the public to look after their property as well as themselves," he said.

"We are calling upon everyone to do their part and exercise a sense of responsibility. Even if we [police] arm ourselves or put ourselves on the ground and patrol day and night, if those who are supposed to be protected lack a sense of responsibility, crime will continue to take its course," Shapumba said.

Car accidents

The inspector said the country has already recorded a spike in car accidents.

"Last week, over the weekend, we lost two people on the road. It's even suspected that people were overtaking at a double barrier line in a 60-kilometre zone with the speed being suspected as one of the contributing factors in that regard.

"We need to remind ourselves that we are not the only persons on the road and, as such, we need to respect other road users to make sure that everybody celebrates the holiday season and Christmas in a joyous mood," he said.

Stock theft

Shapumba said the police have also seen a spike in stock theft and related crimes in areas such as Otjimbingwe, Omatjete and Okombahe.

"We have come to learn through investigations that some of the suspects make use of dangerous articles such as pangas to attack herders who are looking after animals," he said, cautioning members of the public - especially farmers - to be on high alert at all times.

"Let us warn those who are looking after animals to exercise caution and group themselves in groups of two, three or four so that we can fight this particular crime," he said.

Boots on the ground

He further assured visitors to the coast that the police will "redouble efforts and keep the boots on the ground" to ensure everyone's safety.

"We are going to put up roadblocks and intensify our patrols as we want to see people enjoying themselves at the beach and everywhere else. Hence, it is important that we report those who are committing crimes or are suspected to be committing crimes.

"We will not be able to achieve our objectives without the help of the public. Let us co-exist with one another in mutual respect," Shapumba added.

Drunk swimming

The community policing head further cautioned members of the public to avoid swimming while under the influence of alcohol.

"If you can't swim, don't swim and do not use alcohol. Past experiences have taught us that there are some people who have lost their lives during this time of the year as a result of drowning. In as much as water can be enjoyable, in as much as being close to the water can be fun, it can also be tragic if we don't exercise responsibility," he said.

Shapumba extended a word of appreciation to members of the public, community leaders and businesses for their assistance in the prevention of crime.

"We would not be able to achieve much without the continued support of the public or the business fraternities," he said.

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