As almost 80 drug-related arrests were made in the Otjozondjupa region from January to June 2023, police and local officials joined hands this past weekend to ‘clean up’ Otjiwarongo.
They also encouraged the community to actively participate in combatting drug dealing and crime in the region.
Officers from Windhoek joined the regional authorities in patrolling the town, and confiscated illegal substances such as ‘Yes’ cigarettes and whisky sachets here on Friday. Regional governor James Uerikua emphasised the need for community support to create a crime-free environment.
“While the police are responsible for law- enforcement, they are not enemies, but rather dedicated to ensuring the prevention of crimes. Unfortunately, some individuals view the police as adversaries, and are willing to resort to violence against law-enforcement officers. It is crucial that we understand the roles and responsibilities of different institutions,” urged the governor.
This call was reiterated during a community outreach awareness workshop on drug law-enforcement held in Otjiwarongo on Saturday.
The operation was organised following the recent seizure of 48 parcels of cannabis valued at N$240 000, and the subsequent arrest of three suspects in Tsumkwe West, Grootfontein district. The suspects have been remanded in custody, and are expected to appear in court soon.
Police inspector general Joseph Shikongo said the campaign aimed to educate the public about the consequences of engaging in criminal activities, particularly drug-related offences, which have been on the rise in the country.
In his speech, read on his behalf by Otjozondjupa police commander Heinrich Tjiveze, Shikongo stressed the importance of young people joining forces with the police in the fight against drug trafficking and distribution.
“By doing so, we can make Namibia the safest and most peaceful country in Africa, if not in the world,” he stated.
Drug detection statistics for the Otjozondjupa region show that from January 2023 to June 2023, a total of 77 suspects were arrested in connection with drug-related crimes, including cannabis, Mandrax, cocaine powder and crack cocaine. Of these arrests, 71 suspects were male, and six were female.
“In June alone, 153 suspects were arrested nationwide for dealing in cannabis, Mandrax and crack cocaine, with an estimated value of N$617 475. Out of these figures, 148 were Namibians, with one Angolan, one Congolese and three Zambians,” revealed Shikongo.
The statistics underscore the seriousness of the drug trafficking challenge. Therefore, the Namibian Police have made it a priority to continue conducting awareness campaigns to educate the community on how to combat and prevent the illicit trafficking of narcotics and other transnational crimes.
“I urge all peace-loving Namibians to refrain from engaging in illegal and unproductive activities such as drug and alcohol abuse, and other destructive behaviour,” added Shikongo.
Regional councillor Marlene Mbakera highlighted that in 2020, Namibia confiscated significant quantities of illicit substances, including 843 892kg of cannabis, 4 930 Mandrax tablets, 1 072 grams of cocaine powder, 650 units of crack cocaine and 2 922 grams of Tik, with a total value of N$11 million.
She said the solution to this problem lies in creating awareness, and spreading the message about the destructive nature of drugs. Discussions at family, church and youth gatherings are thus essential in addressing the issue.
Prior to the workshop, the police conducted a night patrol on Friday, during which illegal substances and weapons were confiscated. Individuals found in possession of knives and alcohol on the streets were warned, and had their items confiscated. Bar owners operating beyond their permitted hours were asked to close, and advised to adhere to their licence limits. Unlicensed and unroadworthy vehicles were likewise impounded, while a bus travelling to Zimbabwe had its disc removed due to worn-out tyres. The driver was also found to be without an international driving permit.