The Minister of Safety and Security (RtD) Major-General Charles Namoloh has called for discipline in the police force following recent cases highlighting indiscipline and criminality in the police.
On Monday, a police officer, Barnabas Muzanima, appeared in the Walvis Bay Magistrate’s Court for alleged theft involving a racket that targeted parked motor vehicles.
A month ago, another police officer also appeared for theft in the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court.
New Era has also reported that female police officers in Grootfontein were accused of having relationships with trial-awaiting prisoners and this matter is still being investigated.
Namoloh urged all officers to conduct themselves in the most disciplined and professional manner, “as this will not only uphold the existing good image of NamPol, but will also encourage our stakeholders to continue supporting this event in the future”.
Namoloh’s statement was read on his behalf by his deputy Daniel Kashikola at the official opening of the 21st Namibian Police Force Annual Sports Championship that was held in Oshakati on Saturday. Close to 2 000 NamPol members from all 14 regions of the country participated in the championships in athletics, football, volleyball, netball, darts, chess and pool.
Chapter 23 of the NamPol Administration Manual makes provision for sporting activities to enable the members of the force from all Namibian regions to gather in one region annually to compete in various sport disciplines.
There has been a perception that police officers are obese and cannot run after criminals. Inspector Slogan Mathews previously informed New Era that Section 30 of the police regulations serves to encourage members to participate in sporting activities, in order to enhance fitness levels.
“Additionally, during our on-the-job training programmes, the courses offered at our colleges involve a component of physical training,” he said.