Niël Terblanché
The Namibian Police has launched a comprehensive community outreach program aimed at educating the public about the dangers associated with explosive ordnance after a devastating tragedy that struck a family in the Zambezi Region.
The Nampol initiative stresses a pressing need for heightened awareness following the fatal event earlier this year, where an explosion claimed the lives of three young children.
The tragedy unfolded towards the end of January this year when a hand grenade detonated at the homestead of 34-year-old Kashako Mulatehi.
The family, involved in the collection of scrap metal, inadvertently brought home a lethal danger. Their discovery of a hand grenade in the Liselo area, exploded while being tampered with, leading to critical injuries and the eventual loss of life.
Yamuno Mulatehi, aged 14, perished instantly at the scene, and his 9-year-old sister, Lydia Mulatehi, succumbed to her injuries at the Katima Mulilo State Hospital.
The aftermath saw Kashako Mulatehi, the father, and his surviving child, Mulatehi Mulatehi, critically wounded and in desperate need of medical attention.
Despite the efforts to save them, the family faced further despair as Mulatehi Mulatehi also lost his life a few days later.
In the wake of this tragedy, the community of Kongola hosted the police’s outreach event which is a collective endeavour to prevent future loss of lives.
Commissioner Andreas Shilelo, the Zambezi Regional Police Commander, emphasized the importance of vigilance and the role of adults in educating the youth about the risks posed by explosives.
He said it is a broader initiative to instil caution and awareness among residents, reinforcing the message that safety begins with knowledge and mindfulness.
Commissioner Shilelo said the tragedy stresses the critical importance of community education programs in mitigating risks and safeguarding lives against the backdrop of unforeseen threats.
He expressed hope that the outreach efforts will build a path toward greater safety and awareness that will prevent future tragedies.
