Niël Terblanché
The Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo, inaugurated new police facilities in the Oshana region over the weekend.
The newly inaugurated facilities are a state-of-the-art police station in Okatyali and improved infrastructure at the permanent police checkpoint near Ongwediva.
At the inauguration ceremony, Shikongo highlighted the ongoing challenge of insufficient office space, which has hindered the effective deployment of police personnel.
“The completion of new facilities such as this one is a welcomed development that will allow us to make proper and suitable deployments of our men and women in uniform,” he said.
Shikongo added that the new police station is a demonstration of the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges and improving the conditions for the Namibian Police Force.
The Okatyali Police Station is a comprehensive facility that includes a charge office, barracks for male and female officers, a two-bedroom house, a staff entertainment area, a water stand, a septic tank, and a covered carport.
Shikongo reported that the completion of the facility came at a cost of N$4.9 million. The office furniture was included in the price, while a Toyota Hilux 4×4 single-cab vehicle costing N$600 746 was allocated to the new police station.
Shikongo also spoke about crimes such as domestic violence, assault, and stock theft, which are most prevalent in the Oshana Region.
“In this regard, we need community partnerships to enhance crime prevention efforts,” he said.
He also urged the community to take part in neighbourhood security and work with the police to root out criminals.
Shikongo said the new facilities will bring much-needed policing services closer to the people while also enhancing their sense of security.
He urged police officers to demonstrate a high level of commitment and responsibility in utilising the new facility optimally.
“The facilities are also created to improve the livelihood of police officers and the overall security of Namibian citizens, despite economic challenges,” he added.
He thanked Councillor Joseph Mupetami for donating a private structure that served as an interim police station and expressed the Namibian Police’s gratitude to the government for its financial support.
“I call on all Namibian citizens to continue supporting the Namibian Police in its mission to prevent and combat crimes, leading to a safer environment for all,” he urged.
He said that the inauguration of the new police station marks the beginning of a new era of security and prosperity for the people of Okatyali and the surrounding communities.
