Maria David
THE maintenance of law and order is an issue of national importance which can be achieved through crime prevention efforts.
This was evident with the launch of ‘Operation Lucia’ at Oshakati police headquarters on Saturday.
According to Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration and Safety and Security Lucia Iipumbu crime remains a serious concern in the county and in the Oshana Region specifically.
“We are particularly disturbed by the rise in armed robberies, murder cases, gender based violence, road traffic accidents, drug-related offences, and property crimes,” she said.
She added that equally important, crime statistics increasingly point not only to reported incidents but also to proactive efforts by the police-where law enforcement gets the intel before the crime happens.
Iipumbu said that this proactive policing approach is commendable and should be reinforced.
She stressed that the use of technological aided policing is encouraged and must be supported by all.
“We must continue to empower, professionalise, and mobilise this force as part of our broader crime-fighting strategy,” she added.
Iipumbu then emphasised that deadly force must only be used when absolutely necessary, and in full accordance with the law.
She reminded the officers that the law provides guidance on the appropriate response, but must never be the aggressors and the badge must represent protection, not fear.
Meanwhile, Major General Elias Mutota indicated that the maintenance of law and order is an issue of national importance which can be achieved through crime prevention efforts such as the ‘Operation Lucia’.
Mutota said it includes identifying hide-out and hot-spot places for criminals, among others.
“The safety and security of our citizens remain a top priority of the Namibian Police Force, and this operation stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to get out our communities from criminal elements and to restore public confidence in the police and the rule of law,” he said.
He added that this operation is a targeted, intelligence-driven initiative that seeks to curb prevalent criminal activities within Oshana and its neighbouring regions.
Mutota said that the operation’s objectives include crime intelligence collection, intensified visibility patrols, mobile roadblocks, seizure, and flashy community engagement, and swift apprehension of offenders.
