Concerns over safety and human rights have intensified following recent allegations of abuse and lawlessness at the Rundu Police Station holding cells in the Kavango East region.
Several community members and political leaders have raised alarm over the deteriorating state of the holding cells, where overcrowding, broken cell doors, and lack of effective supervision have reportedly created an unsafe environment for detainees and police officers alike.
One of the individuals who claims to have experienced the chaos first-hand is 37-year-old John Mukoya. In a widely circulated video, Mukoya alleges he was assaulted and extorted by fellow detainees while being held in the facility. He claims he was presented with a disturbing choice between physical abuse or paying a bribe to avoid further harm. According to his statement, he was later forced to call his wife to send money to secure his safety.
Mukoya’s experience has shed light on deeper concerns surrounding the holding cells. Community members have long complained about the poor state of the facility, accusing police management of ignoring the risks faced by both detainees and officers.
Political activist Moses Nyundu, who represents the Action Democratic Movement party in Rundu, has also spoken out about the situation. He criticized the police for their apparent loss of control over the holding cells, pointing to reports of inmates freely moving around the charge office due to broken cell doors.
Nyundu noted that while the Namibian constitution protects the rights of all individuals, this should not result in a system where criminal behavior is allowed to flourish inside police facilities. He also raised concerns about police officers’ reluctance to enforce discipline, allegedly due to fears of disciplinary action from senior officials.
“The community has been complaining about this for a long time, but no proper action has been taken,” Nyundu said, emphasizing that both the station leadership and regional commanders are aware of the conditions but have failed to implement lasting solutions.
Kavango East regional police commander, Commissioner Andreas Haingura, confirmed that challenges exist at the Rundu Police Station, including overcrowding and the movement of inmates beyond secured areas. However, he stated that steps are already being taken to address the problems.
“Yes, there are challenges, but those brought to my attention are being attended to,” Haingura assured.
The situation at the Rundu Police Station has reignited discussions about prison conditions, police accountability, and the need for urgent reforms to ensure the safety of all individuals in custody—while also preserving the integrity of law enforcement operations.
Community leaders continue to call for increased oversight, tighter security measures, and urgent repairs to the facility before further incidents occur.
