The Namibian Police (NamPol) is set to roll out vehicle tracking systems across its entire fleet in a bid to improve operational efficiency, enhance accountability, and respond faster to emergencies.
Inspector General Joseph Shikongo announced the move, saying the initiative aims to end long-standing public complaints about police officers claiming there are no vehicles available when responding to incidents.
Currently, NamPol vehicles are not equipped with any tracking devices, making it difficult for commanders to monitor their movement and availability. Shikongo said this will soon change as the tracking system will allow station commanders to see in real time how many vehicles are active, where they are located, and which ones can be dispatched to emergencies.
“The station commander will know how many vehicles are available and where the vehicles are. Police vehicles will be monitored and tracked to ensure effective response to emergencies and to maintain law and order,” said Shikongo.
Although he did not specify when the implementation will be completed, the Inspector General confirmed that the process has already begun.
He further cautioned officers against turning away members of the public under the pretext of vehicle shortages, stressing that assistance should be sought from nearby stations if necessary.
“No police officer must tell the public there are no vehicles to attend to a scene or incident. If you are based at Wanaheda Police Station and there is no vehicle, call the station in town or Katutura to assist,” Shikongo directed.
The Inspector General also indicated that police headquarters will closely monitor compliance with these directives, while the Deputy Inspector General for Operations will coordinate with regional commanders to ensure proper support and resource allocation.
In addition to improving fleet management, NamPol has identified Okahandja and Rehoboth as emerging drug hot spots. Shikongo said targeted crime prevention operations will be conducted in these areas as part of the force’s broader strategy to combat drug-related offences and maintain public safety.
The move to modernize NamPol’s fleet management marks a step toward greater accountability, efficiency, and transparency within the country’s law enforcement system.
