ONGWEDIVA – The Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Joseph Shikongo, has urged officials responsible for recruiting police cadets to refrain from corrupt activities during the recruitment process.

Shikongo said officers who will be accountable for processing the applications for recruitment must ensure they are working in truth and fairness.

Shikongo last week officially announced the commencement of the recruitment process for the Namibian Police cadets.

He thus urged the police personnel office to refrain from favouring their relatives over other applicants.

“Jobs will be given to all eligible candidates; therefore, every eligible candidate who meets the requirements should apply,” he stressed.

Prospective cadet constables are required to hold an authentic Grade 12 NSSCO/H or Grade 11 (new curriculum) qualification.

Applicants must be between the ages of 18 to 35 years, must not have a criminal record, must be physically healthy, and female candidates must be willing to undergo a pregnancy test.

Early this year, when the Namibia Correctional Services was recruiting, members of the public raised their concerns over alleged nepotism during the recruitment process. 

Shikongo said he has been receiving numerous calls and messages from members of the public, asking him to recruit their relatives in the Namibian police as favours.

“I refused because I don’t want to use corruption. I like fairness,” he indicated.

He stressed that he doesn’t give jobs to people and that there are procedures that need to be followed.

“Nampol recruitment is done through the public service. I don’t have the power to recruit anyone or the officers don’t have the power to favour certain people,” he said.

Meanwhile, Shikongo urged prospective applicants to be aware of scammers. He said, in the past, many people lost their money from paying fake recruiters.

“All criminal activities taking place during this recruitment process should be reported immediately,” he added.