Staff Reporter
THE crime statistics of 1 to 27 December show assault, Gender-based Violence (GBV) and rape have been the most prevalent crimes in the Erongo region for the period indicated.
According to deputy commissioner Tobie Gerber of the Erongo police, GBV crimes are mostly due to alcohol abuse, with assaults mostly taking place in or around liquor outlets or at events.
“Rape cases reported are on the increase. Victims are targeted during or after parties at public places or private events at homes. Alcohol should be consumed responsibly. We should always know who we associate with. Everyone should plan and know before going out how and with whom are they going home,” Gerber said.
He said theft and robbery in the early hours remain a concern in the Kuisebmond and Mondesa neighbourhoods, as victims are often alone coming from entertainment places, making them easy targets of offenders who mostly move in groups of four to five.
“Club and bar owners can play a big part in crime prevention if they follow the law by not selling alcohol to a person who is visibly under the influence and have security that ensures control at the entry. This includes not allowing people to take alcohol outside, and identifying of troublemakers and victims.
Assist clients that need help with transport or help find a friend to escort them home,” Gerber said.
With regards to accidents in Erongo towns, one death was reported at Arandis, as well as 84 other elsewhere in which four people sustained slight injuries. Walvis Bay reported the most, namely 37 accidents, followed by Swakopmund (22).
On Erongo main roads, 16 accidents were reported. Karibib recorded the most, namely eight on the B2, with six people slightly injured and one seriously.
In Walvis Bay, 35 cases of drunk driving were reported, followed by Swakopmund (14), Henties Bay (8), and Mondesa (7).
In addition, 657 traffic summons with admission of guilt to the value of N$733 740 were issued. Walvis Bay recorded the most (243), followed by Swakopmund (167) and Karibib (140).
“Overall crime over the Christmas weekend was relatively quiet, while most towns in Erongo reported few crimes the past Sunday and Monday,” Gerber said.
“It is evident, judge by the large number of people who go out every day for fishing, 4×4 driving and recreational activities, that they are enjoying the weather at the coast,” he said.
“It is just sad to see the amount of garbage that is left behind. It is the responsibility of everyone to take along garbage bags, as bins are restricted to camping and municipal areas. Keep Namibia clean.”
