Seasons greetings – a message by Major General Elias Mutota

The Namibian Police Force (NamPol) launched its festive season operations on 16 November, which will run along with the national road safety campaign until 20 January 2023.

Along with this, Major General Elias Mutota, Deputy Inspector General for Operations at NamPol, emphasized the importance of safety, security, law and order during this period.

“Many people will be travelling across the country as schools and some workplaces close during December. Historical data shows that during this period, the prevalence of crime and road accidents is high. It is against this background that I appeal to motorists to adhere to traffic rules and regulations, by ensuring that their vehicles are roadworthy; maintaining the allowed speed limit; maintaining a safe following distance; refraining from drinking alcohol or using any intoxicating substances while driving; not overtaking at blind spots; and resting enough before your journey.”

He reiterated his call to all road safety stakeholders, law enforcement officials, motorists and pedestrians to work together towards a common goal of reducing road traffic accidents, adding that for many, the festive season brings an increase in travelling, shopping and socializing. “Therefore there appears to be a peak where crime rates escalate. This is a period where many people are vulnerable to becoming victims of criminal activities. Yet, most of these criminal activities can be prevented if people pay careful attention to their surroundings and take active precautions to prevent crimes from occurring,” he said.

Mutota said that NamPol together with partners and stakeholders will carry out robust policing operations countrywide during the festive season. “These operational interventions are aimed at engaging the community at different levels (business sectors, churches, schools, community groups against crime) to strengthen and intensify the fight against crime.”

Prevalent crime includes housebreaking and theft, theft out of motor vehicles, ATM and or online fraud, theft under false pretence, cell phone and handbag snatching, robbery and shoplifting, leading to the loss of valuable properties.

“These acts of violence do not only pose a threat to the victims but also disturbs us as the Police as the custodian of safety and security. Therefore, we as citizens must protect our properties, be vigilant and always scan the environment around us in whatever we do; especially when withdrawing large amounts of cash from banks,” he said.

Mutota added that the seriousness of continued acts of violence against rural communities as well as the high level of stock theft requires joint efforts by farmers, communities, and the police to combat these acts of evil.

“Should you observe something out of the ordinary or become suspicious of anything, report it immediately to the nearest police station or road traffic checkpoint. Police visibility will be the order of the day during the festive season and beyond.”

In conclusion, he warned criminals and would-be criminals, that the force will not tolerate criminal behaviour towards the public. “We are determined to bring the fight to your doorsteps. I repeat, BE WARNED!

“The Namibian Police Force reaffirms its unwavering commitment to providing safety and security to members of the public during the festive season and beyond.

“I wish you a crime and incident-free festive season and a happy new year.”