Major drug operation nets 221 arrests in Erongo

A total of 221 suspects have been arrested in the Erongo Region during police operations since October 2025, with drugs and other illicit goods worth over N$2.5 million confiscated.

The seizures included 36.167 kg of skunk cannabis valued at N$1.8 million, 396 grams of high-grade cannabis worth N$39 600, 1.586 kg of majad cannabis valued at N$15 860, and 4 032 mandrax tablets worth N$483 840.

Police also confiscated 238 units and 88 blocks of crack cocaine valued at N$43 000, 59 grams of cocaine powder worth N$29 500, three grams of crystal meth (N$1 500), illicit cigarettes and alcohol worth N$82 787, and 34 abortion tablets valued at N$8 500.

Erongo Police regional commander Commissioner Nikolaus Kapirika Kupembona briefed the media last week on the successes of the operations.

He said the seized items had been removed from the streets, helping to curb the distribution of illegal substances in the region.

The 221 suspects arrested include 189 Namibian men, 23 Namibian women and nine foreign nationals. Several have already appeared in court, while investigations into the remaining suspects are ongoing.

Assist police

Kupembona highlighted several challenges faced by the drug law enforcement sub-division, including public reluctance to share information and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals by drug dealers.

“We are facing a situation where drug dealers use minors, pensioners, unemployed youth, homeless individuals, and scholars to sell drugs on their behalf," he said.

“At the end of the day, these vulnerable people are the ones who get arrested, creating a perception that the main culprits are untouchable,” he added.

He urged the community to assist the police by sharing information.

“We urge the public to come forward and assist us with information so that we can remove drugs from our communities.”

Arrested

Among those who have appeared in court are Wilbard Shideni Ilyambo and Kyla Koppotjch, who were found in possession of 14 484 grams of cannabis and 952 mandrax tablets, valued at N$838 440.

Marcel Marcellino Goagoseb appeared on 11 February after being charged with possession of cannabis and crack cocaine. Police had seized 80 blocks and units of crack cocaine, along with one gram of cannabis, valued at N$16 400. He remains in custody, with his next hearing scheduled for 11 May.

Elijah Mouers also appeared in court following the seizure of 144 grams of cannabis, valued at N$7 200, at a tuck shop on Vissaland Street, based on information from the public. He was granted bail of N$1 500, with his case postponed to 19 February for plea.

Additionally, Raphael Likuwa had his bail reduced from N$2 000 to N$1 000, with his matter postponed to 20 May for further investigation.