WALVIS BAY - The community of Walvis Bay on Wednesday witnessed the official opening of the long-awaited Tutaleni police station, which is aimed at bringing services closer to the community.

The state-of-the-art station was inaugurated by safety and security minister Albert Kawana.

It was constructed to the tune of N$127 million, and consists of a 40-room barracks and three three-bedroom houses, an open lounge, dining area, kitchen, two guard houses and holding cells. It is also equipped with a service building, small-sized soccer field, parking areas doubling as parade grounds, and a petrol station with a wash bay.

In addition to that, the new police station received a 16-seater Toyota Quantum, a single-cab Toyota Hilux, two sedans as well as computers to effectively carry out their mandate.

The station furthermore has an integrated E-policing system.

Speaking at the inauguration, Kawana said infrastructure such as these are key as they not only allow Namibians access to much-needed services, but also enhance the living conditions of those serving the community. “To effectively carry out their mandate, the police require a conducive operating environment with modern infrastructure, equipped personnel and relevant knowledge and skills. Thus, the government has prioritised projects like the new station as it enhances the security of communities and contributes to the infrastructure of the Erongo region,” he stated.

Kawana said Namibia prioritised infrastructural development since gaining independence in 1990, as government services in rural areas were previously neglected. He added that the Namibian Police play a crucial role in ensuring and preserving internal security, maintaining law and order, investigating offences, preventing crime, and protecting life and property. “This is why the government commits to prioritising budgetary provisions for law-enforcement so that they carry out their duties and maintain peace and security,” the minister said. Speaking at the same event, inspector-general of the Namibian Police Joseph Shikongo highlighted the importance of the new facility, observing that it will improve policing services and enhance the living and working conditions
for the officers.

“I, therefore, express my gratitude to the government for their efforts in prioritising our budget to improve and uplift the living and working conditions of police officers,” he added.

– edeklerk@nepc.com.na