Staff Reporter
THE Namibian Police Force has responded to queries about pictures circulating that show inmates at the Oshikango Police Station.
According to Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi of the Namibian Police, the incident occurred on Thursday, 22 August 2024, at the Oshikango Police Station holding cell, around 16:30.
“Smoke was detected coming from Holding Cell 5, and members of the Reserve Force were dispatched to determine what was happening in that cell. When the officers attempted to enter the cell, the trial-awaiting prisoners obstructed them, refusing entry. The officers eventually managed to enter, but this led to pushing, pulling, and beating. In the process, seven inmates sustained injuries and were taken to Engela District Hospital, where they received medical attention,” Shikwambi said.
She added that so far, cases of malicious damage to property and obstructing a police officer while performing his/her duties have been opened.
“During the cell search, ten smuggled cellphones were found. It was later established that the smoke was coming from a CCTV camera installed in that particular cell. Investigations are ongoing,” Shikwambi said.
