Community Policing Officer
Road crashes and fatalities remain on an increase within the capital city’s roads, with the human factor being the most contributing factor to these crashes. These factors may include, among others, poor adjustment of driving behaviour and attitudes on our roads; inexperience of new drivers, coupled with speeding; failure to adhere to road rules and regulations, particularly the wearing of seatbelts, and using cellphones while driving.
These factors contribute negatively towards road carnage, and we continue educating and creating awareness for motorists and road users to willingly adjust their driving attitudes and behaviour.
Although the exact causes of crashes on the city’s roads are identified, more education campaigns are underway and have been conducted on various media platforms, including print, broadcasting and social media. However, the behaviour and attitudes of motorists have seemingly not altered.
Statistically, City Police issues fines relating to seatbelts, the use of cellphones while driving, as well as inconsiderate driving, like making illegal U-turns, with the culprits being mostly taxi drivers.
Drivers of private vehicles and minibuses are culprits of speeding, overtaking in the face of oncoming traffic, hit-and-run incidents, driving under the influence of alcohol and not wearing seat belts.
City Police continues to educate the general public about the danger of all these, and we always declare that road safety is everyone’s responsibility – be it that you are a vehicle driver, cyclist, pedestrian or passenger.
Our law enforcement officers are directed to always be on high alert to ensure visibility and patrol all identified hot areas and intersections.
Road safety, in general, is difficult to enforce, particularly when creating awareness and educating motorists is expected or left alone to law enforcement officials. Society needs voluntary compliance behaviour and attitude.
Parents and guardians should also do their part at home. Schools, the department of arts and culture, such as artists with huge social media following, are also encouraged to pass on the message across, while churches and all NGOs should also step in to ensure we sing the same song.
Road safety requires every one of us to play our part in preventing and reducing injuries and fatalities on our roads.
From October 2022 to January 2023, the Windhoek City Police and Namibian Police have embarked on an intensive integrated operation, aimed at preventing and reducing road crashes as well as fatalities within the jurisdiction of Windhoek. This includes the always-dangerous festive season.
We have plans in place to ensure we achieve a 50% reduction in fatalities and crashes, compared to last year’s figures.
Part of our plans includes high visibility of traffic law enforcement in all our zones. We believe together we will achieve our target.
*For any assistance on crime and traffic-related issues, do not hesitate to call the City Police call centre: 061-302 302/2902239 or SMS: 4444