Police combat cross-border crime

Last month, the Namibian Police identified 1 370 stolen vehicles and intercepted 2 577 stolen or lost travel documents by utilising the Mobile Interpol Network Database (MIND).Spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi recently elaborated on the police&#039;s collaboration with Interpol and the Southern African Regional Police Chiefs&#039; Cooperation Organisation (SARPCCO).Part of this collaboration is Operation Usalama, which is in its ninth year and was launched in all 14 regions of the country between 14 and 18 August.According to the police, the number of illegal immigrants arrested has increased from 15 last year to 159 this year. Twenty-eight suspects were apprehended last year and the same number this year for drug-related offences, while the value of confiscated drugs increased from N$121 000 last year to over N$1.07 million this year.This international cooperation has also achieved success in combatting environmental crimes, with 11 suspects arrested this year for environmental violations valued at approximately N$200 000, compared to last year when no arrests were made.Six suspects were apprehended this year for alleged fuel smuggling, compared to none in 2022, although the value of confiscated fuel amounted to more than N$11 000 last year compared to this year&#039;s approximately N$6 000.Four individuals were also arrested for alleged theft of electrical wiring, compared to one arrest in 2022.Illegal diamondsMeanwhile, three individuals, found in possession of four unlicenced firearms and 48 rounds of ammunition, were arrested last month, compared to no such cases recorded last year.According to the statistics, no one has been arrested for illegal diamonds so far this year, although one suspect was detained last year in connection with this offence.Seven suspects were apprehended this year for being in possession of stolen property, compared to no arrests in 2022.Shikwambi said the public has been helpful in the police&#039;s crime-fighting efforts, and she urged this cooperation to continue.Accidents a concernIn a separate statement, Shikwambi called for general cooperation in terms of motor accidents.The number of accidents on Namibian roads is a concern for the police, she said.A total of 1 828 accidents with 3 262 injuries and 241 fatalities have been recorded from 1 January to 27 August this year.This compared to 1 918 accidents with 3 239 injuries and 297 fatalities last year.In 2021, there were 1 809 motor accidents with 3 210 injuries and 303 fatalities."This paints a bleak picture," she said.She added that the loss of lives almost every day on Namibian roads can be prevented through precautionary measures and responsible behaviour."Every life saved is a victory for all of us, so road safety starts with each one of us."– augetto@republikein.com.na

Police combat cross-border crime

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-01

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Police combat cross-border crime

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-01

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