‘Safer Namibia’ operation targets crashes and crime in Ohangwena
Police call for community support
Amid a rise in road fatalities and escalating crime rates, the Ohangwena police officially launched the festive season operation last week to curb crashes and address criminal activities.
The operation, codenamed Safer Namibia, will involve increased patrols and roadblocks across the region.
Speaking at the Onhuno road traffic checkpoint on Thursday, regional police commander Commissioner Ottilie Kashuupulwa issued a stern warning to lawbreakers while calling for urgent community cooperation to stem the tide of road carnage and social crime.
The commissioner revealed grim statistics for the year 2025, highlighting a significant decline in road safety.
Official data shows that 31 people lost their lives in road crashes in the region this year, a sharp increase from previous years.
Additionally, 64 people sustained serious injuries in accidents involving 72 vehicles, police said.
Kashuupulwa attributed the worsening situation to a breakdown in driver discipline.
While Namibia is praised for having one of the best road networks in Africa, the commissioner noted that the attitude of individual drivers is undoing these positive gains.
"Road crashes increase on a daily basis due to driving under the influence of alcohol and high speeds without considering other road users and pedestrians," Kashuupulwa said.
GBV a major concern
Beyond the roads, the regional police chief highlighted a shift in regional crime patterns.
While overall regional crime saw a slight decrease from 6 268 cases in 2024 to 5 680 in 2025, specific crimes of concern remain high.
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) saw a resurgence, with 313 cases reported in the region this year, up from 284 the previous year.
Theft remains the most prevalent offence, with 895 cases recorded this year.
The 'Festive Season Operation', which commenced on 15 November and runs until 16 January, aims to tackle seasonal celebrations and related conduct, often linked to alcohol abuse and social misconduct.
Shared responsibility
In her address, Kashuupulwa stressed that combating crime is not the sole responsibility of law enforcement but a shared duty involving all citizens.
She specifically called on the Women and Men Network Against Crime and business owners to play an active role in supporting crime-prevention efforts.
Addressing public concerns over resources, the regional commander said the police are adequately equipped to carry out its duties.
“The region is equipped with enough vehicles,” she confirmed.
“There is no reason for police officers to tell the public member that there is no vehicle. All stations have vehicles.”
Kashuupulwa concluded by urging residents to report crimes promptly, saying timely reporting is key to ensuring a peaceful transition into 2026.
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The operation, codenamed Safer Namibia, will involve increased patrols and roadblocks across the region.
Speaking at the Onhuno road traffic checkpoint on Thursday, regional police commander Commissioner Ottilie Kashuupulwa issued a stern warning to lawbreakers while calling for urgent community cooperation to stem the tide of road carnage and social crime.
The commissioner revealed grim statistics for the year 2025, highlighting a significant decline in road safety.
Official data shows that 31 people lost their lives in road crashes in the region this year, a sharp increase from previous years.
Additionally, 64 people sustained serious injuries in accidents involving 72 vehicles, police said.
Kashuupulwa attributed the worsening situation to a breakdown in driver discipline.
While Namibia is praised for having one of the best road networks in Africa, the commissioner noted that the attitude of individual drivers is undoing these positive gains.
"Road crashes increase on a daily basis due to driving under the influence of alcohol and high speeds without considering other road users and pedestrians," Kashuupulwa said.
GBV a major concern
Beyond the roads, the regional police chief highlighted a shift in regional crime patterns.
While overall regional crime saw a slight decrease from 6 268 cases in 2024 to 5 680 in 2025, specific crimes of concern remain high.
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) saw a resurgence, with 313 cases reported in the region this year, up from 284 the previous year.
Theft remains the most prevalent offence, with 895 cases recorded this year.
The 'Festive Season Operation', which commenced on 15 November and runs until 16 January, aims to tackle seasonal celebrations and related conduct, often linked to alcohol abuse and social misconduct.
Shared responsibility
In her address, Kashuupulwa stressed that combating crime is not the sole responsibility of law enforcement but a shared duty involving all citizens.
She specifically called on the Women and Men Network Against Crime and business owners to play an active role in supporting crime-prevention efforts.
Addressing public concerns over resources, the regional commander said the police are adequately equipped to carry out its duties.
“The region is equipped with enough vehicles,” she confirmed.
“There is no reason for police officers to tell the public member that there is no vehicle. All stations have vehicles.”
Kashuupulwa concluded by urging residents to report crimes promptly, saying timely reporting is key to ensuring a peaceful transition into 2026.
[email protected]
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