Lahja Nashuuta
The Namibian Police Force has confiscated illicit drugs valued at more than N$49.3 million during nationwide operations conducted between January and December 2023.
Police chief Joseph Shikongo confirmed the figures in a statement issued as part of the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 26 June. He said a total of 1 164 suspects were arrested in connection with drug-related offences during the period under review.
The arrests stemmed from continued efforts by law enforcement to disrupt drug trafficking networks operating in Namibia.
“We remain committed to dismantling the syndicates and local networks that continue to smuggle and distribute illicit substances in our communities,” Shikongo stated.
The confiscated drugs include 4 031.56kg cannabis valued at N$40 315 568.70, 11 228 mandrax tablets valued at N$1 347 360, cocaine powder (14.90 kg) valued at N$7 451 415, crack cocaine (1 458.27 units) worth N$145 827, methcathinone (215g) valued at N$107 500, crystal meth (“Tik”): 25g valued at N$12 500, ecstasy (26 tablets) valued at N$3 120 and MDMA 2.5 capsules valued at N$300.
Shikongo said foreign nationals were arrested during the drug operations.
The arrests included 32 Zambians, 23 Angolans, 14 Congolese, six Tanzanians, four Zimbabweans, four South Africans, three Burundians, two Nigerians, two Batswana, one Mozambican and one Sudanese national. Shikongo expressed serious concern over the growing vulnerability of Namibian youth to drug trafficking syndicates.
He said many are being recruited either as users or couriers. “These substances are destroying lives, tearing apart families and fuelling a cycle of crime and hopelessness across our society,” he remarked.
“Once trapped in the web of addiction, many of our youth struggle to escape,” Shikongo added. He stressed that while policing is essential, the fight against drug abuse must also involve prevention, education and rehabilitation.
“We are working with schools, parents, youth organisations and religious institutions to build resilience among our young people,” he said
He cited ongoing collaborations with the health and education ministries as well as international partners such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
“Enforcement alone is not enough. Prevention, treatment and rehabilitation are just as critical,” Shikongo added.
“Let us support those who are struggling with addiction – not with judgment but compassion. Let today be a renewal of our collective purpose to build a Namibia free from the grip of drugs and addiction,” he remarked.
– lnashuuta@nepc.com.na