Steven Klukowski
KEETMANSHOOP - The new Namibian Police chief has praised the //Kharas region for its collective crime-fighting endeavours.
Joseph Shikongo, inspector general (IG) of the Namibian Police, said the presence of the //Kharas regional leadership, religious and traditional leaders, as well as heads of offices, ministries and/or agencies at the change of command ceremony clearly demonstrates the region’s unity of purpose and collaborative commitment towards attaining public safety, peace and security.
He was speaking during the handing-over of the police’s //Kharas regional command in Keetmanshoop yesterday.
“I must indicate that the Namibian Police Force cannot easily combat crime in isolation. Hence, we continue advocating for a further strengthening of partnerships with stakeholders,” he emphasised. The national police chief also applauded the inhabitants, various forums against crime, and the business community in the region for their continuous support to policing activities and the work of the law-enforcement agencies.
“I must, therefore, encourage you all to continue working together with law-enforcement in the region since your contributions are indeed enormous and play a vital role of supporting the police to implement crime-fighting initiatives aimed at improving public safety,” said Shikongo.
The IG also expressed his sincere appreciation towards the outgoing Nampol //Kharas regional commander David Indongo, his management, and the entire regional force for the excellent policing services they have rendered over the years.
“The role that you played in fostering sound and cordial relations with the community of the //Karas region at large and furthermore ensuring that the police remained a formidable force in the region is indeed appreciated,” he added.
Shikongo similarly expressed optimism that the //Kharas police’s regional management and all members will assist the new commander, commissioner Marius Katamila.
At the occasion, the new //Kharas police chief said his task is a serious one, as the fight against crime is a challenging undertaking which cannot be left in the hands of the police alone.
“Therefore, we intend to adopt a community-oriented policing approach,” he added.
Katamila said they will commence with community engagement activities soon to have a clear understanding of what challenges they are facing, and what strategies to put in place to overcome them.
“I, therefore, beg for the indulgence of the community to consider joining our fight against crime for we cannot police you in isolation,” he noted. The commissioner thanked Indongo for a smooth transition of power, as well as Shikongo for entrusting him with the responsibility as the new regional commander.
Outgoing police chief Indongo expressed his profound gratitude towards the regional political leadership, business community, traditional and church leaders, media fraternity and the citizens at large for working so closely together with his office in the strive of combatting crime.
“I, furthermore, wish to urge all police members in the region to continue working together with their new regional commander as was the case during my tenure, and in addition to observe the highest level of discipline, professionalism and integrity in the execution of their duties,” the commissioner added.