Retired cop launches special anti-poaching unit

Driven by the widespread incidences of poaching in Namibia's game parks, former Oshana police regional commander, Ndahangwapo Kashihakumwa, has introduced a special investigation team to complement government's war on illegal hunting. Kashihakumwa said the birth of the Tobias Hainyeko Anti-Poaching Special Investigation Team was initiated to help combat the increasing number of poaching incidences reported in the country.“With so many animals poached, such as rhinos as reported in the media, we realised that there is a need for such a team and therefore, we approached the relevant authorities to give us the greenlight to go ahead,” Kashihakumwa said.He also said the team has been endorsed by the environment ministry, which has officially recommended the team to work together with other stakeholders.“We approached the environment and tourism minister, Pohamba Shifeta, and the idea interested him. As a result, he gave us a letter recommending all bodies dealing in wildlife to work with the team,” Kashihakumwa said. He explained that the team will not work in isolation, saying there is a need to consistently involve the various stakeholders in the execution of anti-poaching operations.Asked how the team will operate, Kashihakumwa explained that the investigation team will investigate and present the findings to the relevant authorities, who will use the information to tackle the challenge of poaching.Kashihakumwa further said members of the community play an important role in the success of the anti-poaching initiative and he urged residents to report suspicious activities in their areas which the team will take up and investigate.“Once we receive a report, the team will lodge an investigation to confirm the allegation,” he said.Kashihakumwa said some of the funding needed to carry out the operations will be contributed by companies that have shown interest.“We are expecting very good sponsorship,” Kashihakumwa said. KENYA KAMBOWE

Retired cop launches special anti-poaching unit

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Namibian Sun 2025-11-07

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Retired cop launches special anti-poaching unit

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Namibian Sun 2025-11-07

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