Police target wheelie bin theft in Swakopmund

A police-led operation aimed at curbing a growing problem of stolen and misused refuse bins was launched in Swakopmund last week.Several bins were confiscated and individuals found in possession of them were warned and informed of the legal consequences. The operation will continue through July.According to Swakopmund municipal spokesperson Linda Mupupa, “several bins used in suspected criminal activities were confiscated, and numerous individuals were cautioned and educated on the matter”. She said the initiative aims to “curb this growing concern and ensure public safety”.Illegal scavengingResidents have raised concerns for months over stolen bins being used to transport stolen goods, break into homes or illegally scavenge recyclables. Many bins reportedly end up at scrap yards or are used alongside shopping trolleys to move goods.One resident, Leon Nangolo, commented that “thugs are using this dustbin to move stolen goods” and urged police to search bins routinely. Stephan Van Dyk added that bins are used during early mornings to scout and access homes in Ocean View and Vineta.Others, including Pieter Van Wyk, pointed to irregular municipal waste collection as a contributing factor, saying “only one lorry was in action” and that late-night collections leave bins vulnerable.This, he said, is the reason "why bins land in criminals’ hands".Public complaintsResidents welcomed the intervention, with many asking whether they could reclaim their marked bins and requesting further raids at scrap yards. “Can we reclaim stolen bins? The number is marked,” asked Gerome Diergaardt.Others called for more cooperation with neighbourhood watch groups and regular inspections at scrapyards where bins are allegedly dumped or sold.While most responses were supportive, some expressed frustration. “I am so disappointed at this administration of our home,” wrote one user. Another suggested more bins would be stolen now. "Brace yourself.”Mupupa encouraged residents to mark their bins with house numbers to ensure ease of identification and recovery.The operation follows public complaints at recent community meetings and has gained momentum from both citizen input and social media pressure.

Police target wheelie bin theft in Swakopmund

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-01

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Police target wheelie bin theft in Swakopmund

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-01

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