Cops need decent accommodation

Police chief Sebastian Ndeitunga says members of the force should not only be motivated by money, but also by other factors such as accommodation and a decent working environment.
He added employers should always ensure that their employees are well taken care of. Ndeitunga was speaking at the official inauguration of the new N$4.8 million accommodation facility for members of the Very Important Persons Protection (VIPP) Directorate (VIPP) in Oshakati this week.
Making reference to the previous dilapidated office, which served as a clinic during the 1980s and later transformed into the VIPP office in Oshana, Ndeitunga said with expansion in the force and development some of these challenges could not be ignored anymore.
“The official opening of this police facility is a clear indication of our government’s commitment to address the challenges the Namibian Police is confronted with, especially regarding office accommodation,” he said. “The Namibian Police Force continues to capacitate its operational capabilities by expanding its activities in providing support to all units and stations countrywide.” The facility consists of a guardhouse, reception area, six offices, a boardroom, a kitchen, an armoury, a general store and ablution facilities. Ndeitunga also used the opportunity to talk about the envisaged police villages meant to address the accommodation problem hampering the force.
According to Ndeitunga, most police officers are using their hard-earned salary to pay for rent due to a lack of affordable accommodation. “Our police officers are renting and the prices for rent are exorbitantly high,” he said. Ndeitunga said although the idea to construct police villages is yet to materialise, government is impressed with the concept.

KENYA KAMBOWE