ONGWEDIVA - The Oshana police are ready to combat crime as the festive season approaches.
Oshana police regional commander, Commissioner Naftal Sakaria said the men and women in uniform are ready to start their festive season operations at the beginning of December.
With a hive of activities during the holiday season in Oshakati, Ongwediva and Ondangwa, he cautioned homeowners to have good neighbourly relations.
“Inform your neighbour that you are leaving your home unattended, or bring someone to stay in and look after the house while you are gone. Most of the crimes happen when homeowners leave for holiday,” he stated.
Sakaria also urged homeowners to inform the neighbourhood watch committee in their areas to patrol their properties.
“We established neighbourhood watches in every location. Inform them that you are leaving because the police cannot be everywhere all the time,” he continued.
“With the new technologies that everyone is using, one can now monitor their houses from their mobile phones,” he said.
Sakaria also urged those who are travelling to avoid drinking and driving.
“People are already getting into the festive season mood, even before Christmas has started. They are already boozing and wanting to drive around. In this region, the traffic law-enforcement department is intentionally directed as part of our strategy to enhance and improve compliance on our roads and our towns,” he warned.
He assured drivers that drinking and driving would get them into prison, and missing out on Christmas joy.
“Look at your vehicle and its readiness to travel long distances, its roadworthiness and whether your disk is valid. Also, look for your driver’s licence, drive at the authorised speed, and avoid leaving valuable items in your vehicle,” pleaded Sakaria.
He noted that as the police, they depend on the community in terms of sharing information, and will appreciate the usual cooperation and communication.