Kavango East Police Receive Eight Vehicles as Lt Gen Joseph Shikongo Urges Community Cooperation to Reduce Crime in Rundu
By TUW
Lieutenant General Joseph Shimweelao Shikongo has called on community members to take greater responsibility in the fight against crime, stressing that lasting crime reduction will only be possible if residents change their attitudes and work closely with the police.
Shikongo made these remarks during a community information-sharing meeting held at the Government Hall in Rundu, where local leaders, residents and law enforcement officials gathered to discuss rising criminal activities and possible solutions.
He emphasized that while the Namibian Police have a constitutional duty to prevent and combat crime, their efforts will be far more effective with active community involvement. Shikongo pointed out that stolen goods, particularly clothing, are often quickly sold in neighbouring communities at low prices, creating a ready market for thieves.
“When community members knowingly buy stolen items, they indirectly encourage crime. The thief continues stealing because there are customers supporting criminal activities,” he said, adding that public cooperation is essential to break this cycle.
Addressing internal police operations, Shikongo revealed plans to reshuffle police officers to different towns. According to him, prolonged deployment in one area can lead to over-familiarity, making it difficult for officers to act decisively against friends, relatives or acquaintances.
He further announced plans to strengthen policing infrastructure in Rundu, including the introduction of surveillance cameras in the town. In addition, Ndama Police Station is set to be upgraded to a Category A police station, a move expected to enhance operational capacity and improve service delivery.
Shikongo concluded by urging police officers to carry out their duties diligently, particularly at police stations, and to strengthen cooperation with community members. He also addressed concerns from residents about delayed responses due to a lack of police vehicles, stating that this challenge has now been resolved.
According to Shikongo, Kavango East Region has received eight vehicles from the 164 recently procured by the government, which will be deployed to improve response times and support crime-prevention operations. He emphasized that effective policing requires collective responsibility, calling on the public to continue reporting criminal activities and to work hand in hand with law enforcement to ensure safer communities.
