Maria David
OSHANA Police Commander, Commissioner Naftal Lungameni Sakaria, has expressed grave concern over a significant surge in cases of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol in the region.
Speaking during a public engagement held at Onependa location in Okaku Kiipupu on Wednesday, Sakaria revealed that the increased police presence has unveiled a concerning trend.
“Since we got boots on the ground, we saw an increase of 45 cases of driving and drinking under the influence of alcohol in a month,” he said.
He added that this was due to the immediate impact of stepped-up operations.
Sakaria indicated that previously, the region typically recorded only about four to five cases related to traffic law per month, which has now changed due to the presence of police on the ground.
He firmly attributed the escalating number of car crashes to drunk driving, emphasizing the police’s commitment to curbing this dangerous behavior.
“Hence, the cause of car crashes is due to people drunk driving, and we want to put a stop [to it],” he asserted.
Beyond enforcement, Sakaria also addressed the integrity of the police force, stating a clear expectation for his officers.
“We want traffic officers executing their duties as required and not only getting bribes paid; we want work done,” he added.
The public engagement also touched upon broader societal issues impacting community safety.
Sakaria lamented the importance of community-police partnerships, saying that it’s important to curb crimes in the region.
He then urged residents to refrain from vigilantism.
“If you are provoked, open a case and don’t take the law into your hands,” he advised, promoting legal recourse over retaliatory actions.
Meanwhile, Community Policing Sub-division Sergeant Victor Valde Nghilengwa indicated that people should learn to be careful of what they say when drinking.
“Anything said or done while drunk has its own consequences, and the arms of the law will catch up with you,” he said.
Nghilengwa urged Namibians to strengthen parental care so that they have a nation rooted in rules and laws.
