BERSEBA – Inspector General of the Namibian Police Force, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo has proposed that the community of Berseba and surrounding areas create community policing forums such as a neighbourhood watch, Youth Against Crime, and Women and Men networks.
He said during the official opening of the 4th edition of the Berseba Goat Expo 2023 on Friday that policing is and should be a collective and shared responsibility, which requires the involvement of both the community and the police.
“Community policing strengthens the efficiency of our law-enforcement efforts, builds trust, and creates progressive relationships between the police and the community. This kind of involvement will ensure that communities protect their lives and properties through continuous engagement with the police, share concerns, and collectively devise strategies to address local issues,” the top cop said.
He added that community policing will also ensure that citizens have an opportunity to report criminals and their activities, thus providing a greater opportunity for the prevention and effective combating of crime.
Shikongo said while crime sees no colour and is not limited to a particular area, region or country, it affects everyone in one way or another, and deserves to be battled at all costs.
The inspector general further revealed that between January and December 2022, a total of 44 criminal cases were reported in the Berseba area, while from January 2023 to date, a total of 45 cases were reported.
The most common crimes committed in the area include rape, murder, domestic violence, assault, gender-based violence, housebreaking, dealing in drugs and stock theft, he stated, and advised businesses and the farming community to invest in better security systems such as improved fencing and CCTV cameras to prevent crime, particularly stock theft.
“The Force remains firm and dedicated to providing security to all citizens, and those who find themselves living within the borders of our country,” he said assuredly. – Nampa