Allexer Namundjembo
The Namibian Police intensified its fight against the ever-growing drug problem, with more and more illegal substances being detected at border posts.
This has prompted urgent action to tackle drug trafficking, possession, and abuse, which continue to endanger the nation, particularly its youth.
In an interview with the Windhoek Observer, Nampol’s spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi reaffirmed the force’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes, declaring that the police are “ever ready” to tackle this escalating issue.
“We have always fought against drug trafficking, possession, dealing, and usage of these substances,” she said.
Shikwambi revealed alarming statistics for November 2024, demonstrating the scope of the problem.
Nampol confiscated 401.976 kg of cannabis, 2,078 Mandrax tablets, 134 units of crack cocaine, 5 grams of cocaine powder, and 315 Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) stickers, all with an estimated street value exceeding N$4 million.
A total of 138 suspects were arrested, including 124 Namibians and foreign nationals from Angola, Congo, Eswatini, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
“While we are making progress, drug-related crime remains a concealed issue, and it is a constant challenge for us. The use of drugs has become widespread, posing a serious threat to the future of our country, particularly because it is capturing the youth,” Shikwambi said.
She described the increasing prevalence of drug abuse as a national crisis requiring attention not only from law enforcement but also from the wider community.
“When our youth are captured by drugs, it is a problem for all of us, not just the police,” she stressed.
Shikwambi highlighted Nampol’s daily crime prevention measures, including random stop-and-searches and intelligence-driven operations.
She cited a recent case at the Ariamsvlei border post, where two Namibian men were arrested on 14 December.
“Eight parcels of suspected cocaine powder, weighing 8.83 kg and valued at N$4.415 million, were discovered hidden inside a bus. The driver claimed the parcels were handed to him by an unknown individual in South Africa for delivery to Namibia. Police investigations are ongoing,” she said.
Shikwambi added that NampolL collaborates with regional and international partners, such as Interpol and SADC, to combat cross-border drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime that threaten national growth and stability.
As the festive season approaches, Nampol is intensifying public education campaigns about the dangers of drugs and encouraging responsible behaviour.
“Education remains one of our key strategies. We urge the youth to avoid drugs and to enjoy the holiday season responsibly,” Shikwambi said.
Nampol Erongo spokesperson chief inspector Ileni Shapumba, spokesperson for the Erongo police, also emphasised the region’s readiness to address drug-related issues.
He said additional members, including the Special Reserve Force, have been deployed to strengthen law enforcement.
“We aim to be more active, with officers focusing on Swakopmund and other areas within the district,” Shapumba stated.
He added that police patrols would extend to the dunes to clamp down on drug use in the region.
“We will not reveal our strategies, but we will ensure that the drug chain and other crimes are tackled. We urge the public to avoid visiting risky areas, swimming while intoxicated, and driving under the influence of alcohol,” he cautioned.
