ONDANGWA – Police chief Joseph Shikongo says embedding financial management principles into cadet constables cannot be overstated to prevent them from spending all their salaries on alcohol and gambling.

As such, the police Inspector General (IG) called on cadet constables to pay their undivided attention during lessons pertaining to financial management.

With concern, the police IG has noted how police officers squander their salaries on alcohol and gambling soon after they get paid. “This police basic training course is of paramount importance in capacitating and educating
officers to deal with general policing aspects and further help them to enhance their work-based proficiency
in their quest to provide effective and efficient policing services to the public,” the police supremo said while officially opening the Basic Training Police Course at the Ruben Danger Ashipala Police Training at Ondangwa on Monday. Shikongo then stressed that law enforcement agencies play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and security of communities. 

“The Namibian Police is entrusted with the immense responsibility of the preservation of internal security, maintenance of law and order, prevention of crimes, investigation of offences or alleged offence, and protection of life and properties, as stipulated in the Police Act of 1990, as amended,” Shikongo said.

A total number of 842 cadet constables, of whom 572 are males and 270 are females, were recruited from all 14 regions for the current intake. Notably, Shikongo expressed concern about the white community’s lack of interest in applying to the police force. The training commenced on 1 August and will run for nine months.

Shikongo said amongst the 12 subjects, cadet constables will be also taught a subject which is stress management to help them cope with stress. He stated that this subject is also important because it prevents officers from committing suicide.

In addition, he said the training involves a lot of challenging activities. 

He then urged cadet constables to always comply with all lawful instructions and abide by all the rules and regulations of the Namibian Police Force. 

Meanwhile, Shikongo has urged instructors to be exemplary at all times in terms of discipline and dress code.

“Unprofessional behaviours or disregard for cultural diversity would not be tolerated,” Shikongo said. 

Cadet constables forming part of the intensive training expressed joy and gratitude for the opportunity granted to them. -  fhamalwa@nepc.com.na