Niël Terblanché
As Namibian students gear up for their final exams, the Namibian Police issued a strict warning to the public to adhere to regulations limiting noise pollution and controlling alcohol sales.
Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi, the head of the police’s public relations division in a statement on Thursday said that with the focus and academic performance of students of all ages on the line, the police are determined to create a conducive environment for studying by strictly enforcing the Liquor Act of 1998 and other public disturbance by-laws.
Shikwambi stressed the importance of a quiet and safe atmosphere, not only for exam preparations but also as a necessity for the nation’s youth.
“It is necessary to ensure that students can study and concentrate in quiet environments and be able to perform at their best,” she said.
She added that excessive noise and disturbances often stem from alcohol consumption and public gatherings.
“In this regard, all bars, shebeens, and other liquor outlets are warned to operate strictly within their licensed hours,” she said.
Under the provisions of the Liquor Act, licensed establishments are required to observe operating hours, and law enforcement officers will conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance.
“Any establishment found violating these hours or permitting excessive noise may face penalties, including potential suspension or revocation of licenses,” she said.
According to Shikwambi, the crackdown also aims to curb illegal liquor sales, particularly to minors, as a precaution against youth exposure to alcohol during this critical academic period.
She also called on parents to avoid sending minors to purchase alcohol and urged the community to report any instances of liquor sales to underage individuals.
NamPol’s directive extends to preventing public drinking and disruptive gatherings in parks and other public spaces.
Shikwambi added that activities such as street drinking and card games, which often escalate into disturbances or conflicts, will be closely monitored.
“The planned enforcement operation aligns with existing by-laws prohibiting alcohol consumption in public spaces, a regulation that the police intend to uphold vigorously,” she said
Shikwambi added that such gatherings can disrupt the peace, particularly for students studying at home, thus impacting their preparation.
She called on community leaders, business owners, and event organisers to actively contribute to this effort by promoting responsible alcohol use and minimising noise from parties or public events. Namibian Breweries, along with other stakeholders, has been requested to support this initiative by encouraging patrons and event organisers to remain mindful of noise levels.
“We are appealing to everyone, including liquor outlets, to reduce the noise to allow our children to study in conducive environments,” she said while adding that cooperation from all sectors is essential to ensuring a peaceful exam season.
In the run-up to the National Assembly and Presidential Elections, the police anticipate an increase in public gatherings and celebrations.
“The public is reminded that breaches of liquor licenses, such as excessive noise, unauthorised operating hours, or underage sales, will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” she reiterated.
