2015-02-23Staff Report 2 OSHAKATI – The Namibian Police celebrated its 24th anniversary at the jam-packed Oshakati Stadium on Friday. At the same occasion 1 840 cadet constables also graduated, bringing the number of police officers in the country to 16 500 from a mere 800 shortly after independence. Speaking at the occasion, President Hifikepunye Pohamba called on the graduates to serve the nation with integrity, dedication and to carry out their duties without fear or favour. Similarly, the head of state reminded the graduate to use the oath as a compass to guide them in their daily work and encouraged them to grow professionally in the ranks of the Namibian police. “I urge you to work hard so that you can grow professionally through the ranks of the Namibian Police Force,” said the ougoing head of state. The president said government is dedicated to ensure that the Namibian Police is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance effectiveness and enable the police officers to carry out their duties with ease and maintain safety and security in the country. In addition, the President said government will continue to mobilise and allocate the necessary resources in order to enhance the effectiveness of the operations of the police. Funds have been availed to improve the mobility of the Force through the procurement of vehicles of different classes, helicopters and patrol boats, Pohamba said. Similarly, funds were also availed to renovate, construct and improve police accommodation and other facilities nationwide. “Our country is a constitutional democracy, founded on the basis of respect for the fundamental rights of our people,” remarked Pohamba. At the same occasion, silver medals were awarded to police officers from different ranks who served the force for 20 years, while police officers who served the force for ten years received bronze service medals. Two retired police officers also received discharged medals for serving the police in an honourable fashion. 2015-02-23Staff Report 2
