MARIENTAL – The police in Hardap embarked upon a renewed focus on curbing drug smuggling and using in the region.
Police are confident of future success but remains concerned over the prevalence of hard drugs in the region.
Deputy Commissioner Eric Clay, the crime investigations coordinator for Hardap, shared developments in this area with New Era during an interview in Mariental last week.
Clay highlighted that drug abuse and trafficking had been major contributors to the escalating crime rate, particularly in Rehoboth.
The community’s outcry and plea for action did not go unnoticed, leading to the establishment of a drug law enforcement office, which has now successfully tackled drug-related crimes in the area.
“In just three months, starting from 27 April this year, we have confiscated 238 full mandrax tablets, 7 045 grams of skunk cannabis, and 255 grams of cannabis in Rehoboth alone,” said Clay.
He further revealed that during this period, 15 cases were registered, resulting in the arrest of 13 suspects, including three females. The total value of the drugs confiscated in the area amounted to N$383 360.
For the rest of the Hardap region, the statistics are equally striking.
From January to July, a total of N$2.8 million worth of drugs were seized, including 4 493 full mandrax tablets worth N$539 160, 42 652 kilograms of skunk cannabis worth N$2.1 million, 4 654 grams of cannabis valued at N$89 590, and 29 units of crack cocaine worth N$2 900.
Clay urged parents and community members to actively cooperate with the police by providing information that could lead to the apprehension of drug dealers and criminals.
“Drugs are at the heart of all crimes. People under the influence of drugs often end up committing offences. Eliminating drugs from our communities will lead to a significant decrease in crime,” he explained.
While drug-related crimes have been a major focus, Clay also acknowledged other pressing concerns, such as stock theft, common assault, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and rape.
He expressed gratitude to various stakeholders, including traditional authorities, neighbourhood watch groups, farmers’ associations and law-abiding individuals for their collaborative efforts in fighting criminal activities.
Robust operations have been instrumental in the region’s crime reduction, with Clay stressing that factors such as drug and alcohol abuse, greed and poverty contribute to criminal behaviour. He made a passionate appeal to the entire Hardap region to unite with the Namibian Police in their joint endeavour to combat crime and create a safer environment for all residents.
“The success of the drug unit, inaugurated on 27 April this year in Rehoboth and the overall decline in criminal activities, serve as a testament to the power of community cooperation and the relentless dedication of law enforcement officials in ensuring a crime-free future for the Hardap region,” he said. - ljason@nepc.com.na