Police step up fight against online child sexual exploitation

Amid a growing trend of online sexual exploitation, the Namibian Police recently hosted a five-day workshop in Swakopmund to train stakeholders in combating online child abuse and related digital crimes.

Around 45 police officials and social workers attended.

The training, conducted by the Namibian Police’s Cybercrime Unit within the Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID), focused on equipping first responders with critical skills in identifying victims, handling digital evidence and responding to cyber-related offences.

Namibian Police Senior Inspector Gabriel Paxula said the initiative was driven by the growing prevalence of online child sexual exploitation, which has become a pressing concern for law enforcement.

“This type of crime is a new trend, and we decided to disseminate information to members of the Namibian Police Force and stakeholders so they are better equipped to respond,” he said.

The training specifically targeted station commanders, field training officers and community officers, as well as gender and health ministry officials, who are often the first responders in such cases.

Paxula explained that the programme also covered trafficking in persons, the Child Care and Protection Act, and the Rape Act, while providing a platform for participants to discuss challenges experienced in the field.

Erongo regional commander Commissioner Nikolaus Kupembona underscored the importance of applying the knowledge gained.

“The true value of training will not be measured by attendance or completion, but by how effectively you apply what you have learned in your daily work,” he said.

Kupembona added that every case handled, every victim supported, and every piece of evidence properly managed contributes to justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals.

The training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Namibia’s response to cybercrime, gender-based violence and child protection in an increasingly digital world.