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 programmes such as the neighbourhood watch, the Youth Against Crime and Women and Men network.
Shikongo during the official opening of the 4th edition of the Berseba Goat Expo 2023 here on Friday said policing is and should be a collective and shared responsibility, which requires the involvement of 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,” he 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, imploring the community of Berseba to join hands with the police and combine efforts to root out criminals in society.
The Inspector General further revealed that between January to December 2022, a total of 44 cases were reported in the Beserba 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 said and advised that businesses and farming communities invest in better security systems, such as improved fencing, 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.
Source: The Namibia Press Agency