Elections and holidays: Police advise residents to step up security
Kavango East regional police commander Commissioner Andreas Haingura has raised concerns about a possible spike in crime as the country nears the general election on 27 November, followed closely by the festive season.
Speaking to Namibian Sun on Wednesday, Haingura urged residents to be vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement.
"As we approach the festive season, people are flocking to town, so residents must take extra care," he advised.
"When withdrawing money or conducting banking transactions, they should remain vigilant," he added.
"Additionally, they must ensure everything is securely locked when leaving their homes. Let’s have someone stay home to prevent break-ins."
He emphasised that "reporting suspicious activity to the police and working together as a team, the community and the police, will help us prevent criminal opportunities.”
Strengthen security
Haingura’s comments come just days after Rundu Urban constituency councillor Victoria Kauma expressed concern about the high crime rate, especially in the Ndama area.
Kauma, speaking at a recent police equipment donation event, called on the Rundu Town Council and the police to accelerate plans for a police station in Ndama.
"I want to see the class-A police station come to life. The Ndama community has allocated a larger plot for it. We, the Rundu Town Council, the regional councillor and the police, along with government support, need to make this station a reality to combat crime in Rundu Urban,” she said.
Kauma stressed the importance of community cooperation in crime prevention.
"Ndama is known for its high crime rate, largely driven by gangs of unemployed youth. Common crimes include cellphone snatching, assault and rape," she pointed out.
Haingura, meanwhile, urged the community to support police efforts in the area.
"The Ndama community must work with the police so that we can root out any criminal elements within our area."
Added layer of protection
Kavango West police Chief Inspector Raimbert Muronga also cautioned Namibians to consider security as the holidays approach.
"This season brings excitement but also heightened anxiety, as criminals may exploit unattended homes, offices and other properties," Muronga said.
He highlighted that, historically, crimes like housebreaking and robbery increase during this period.
“When people travel, leaving their homes or workplaces unattended, these places become more vulnerable. Arranging for security or leaving someone behind can deter criminals,” he said.
Muronga also pointed to the upcoming elections as another potential risk.
"The elections provide distractions that opportunistic criminals might exploit, striking when people let their guard down."
He advised the public to inform local police stations of their travel plans, enabling patrols that offer extra oversight for unoccupied homes.
"Collaboration between the community and the police is essential. By sharing information and working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone,” he noted.
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Speaking to Namibian Sun on Wednesday, Haingura urged residents to be vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement.
"As we approach the festive season, people are flocking to town, so residents must take extra care," he advised.
"When withdrawing money or conducting banking transactions, they should remain vigilant," he added.
"Additionally, they must ensure everything is securely locked when leaving their homes. Let’s have someone stay home to prevent break-ins."
He emphasised that "reporting suspicious activity to the police and working together as a team, the community and the police, will help us prevent criminal opportunities.”
Strengthen security
Haingura’s comments come just days after Rundu Urban constituency councillor Victoria Kauma expressed concern about the high crime rate, especially in the Ndama area.
Kauma, speaking at a recent police equipment donation event, called on the Rundu Town Council and the police to accelerate plans for a police station in Ndama.
"I want to see the class-A police station come to life. The Ndama community has allocated a larger plot for it. We, the Rundu Town Council, the regional councillor and the police, along with government support, need to make this station a reality to combat crime in Rundu Urban,” she said.
Kauma stressed the importance of community cooperation in crime prevention.
"Ndama is known for its high crime rate, largely driven by gangs of unemployed youth. Common crimes include cellphone snatching, assault and rape," she pointed out.
Haingura, meanwhile, urged the community to support police efforts in the area.
"The Ndama community must work with the police so that we can root out any criminal elements within our area."
Added layer of protection
Kavango West police Chief Inspector Raimbert Muronga also cautioned Namibians to consider security as the holidays approach.
"This season brings excitement but also heightened anxiety, as criminals may exploit unattended homes, offices and other properties," Muronga said.
He highlighted that, historically, crimes like housebreaking and robbery increase during this period.
“When people travel, leaving their homes or workplaces unattended, these places become more vulnerable. Arranging for security or leaving someone behind can deter criminals,” he said.
Muronga also pointed to the upcoming elections as another potential risk.
"The elections provide distractions that opportunistic criminals might exploit, striking when people let their guard down."
He advised the public to inform local police stations of their travel plans, enabling patrols that offer extra oversight for unoccupied homes.
"Collaboration between the community and the police is essential. By sharing information and working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone,” he noted.
[email protected]
#NamibiaDecides2024
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