Niël Terblanché
The newly inaugurated DRC Police Station in Swakopmund’s DRC informal settlement is set to stand as a beacon of safety and justice, bringing essential law enforcement services closer to the people who reside in the sprawling informal settlement.
Officially opened on Thursday by Albert Kawana, Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, the facility will also increase security in the growing community.
Kawana said that the new facility was constructed in just six months.
“The state-of-the-art police station is a result of a public-private partnership, with Rössing Uranium Limited funding the project and the Swakopmund Municipality donating the land,” he said.
The facility includes a charge office, holding cells, an identification area, an armoury, and a consulting room for medical services.
The Namibian Police Force (NAMPOL) has procured two vehicles for the station to enhance operational capacity.
“The establishment of this police station is a demonstration of the government’s dedication to expanding law enforcement services, especially in growing communities such as the DRC informal settlement,” he said.
He added that for years, residents in the area had faced security challenges due to the absence of a nearby police station.
Kawana used the occasion to call for further contributions towards police infrastructure.
“I salute the entire management of Rössing Uranium for their generosity. I also urge good Samaritans to donate building materials for police accommodation and office space,” he said.
Kawana urged police officers stationed at the new facility to uphold professionalism and integrity in their service.
“To the officers who will be stationed here, I urge you to serve with dedication, professionalism, and integrity. Upholding the rule of law, respecting human rights, and fostering good relations with the community will be key in maintaining trust and ensuring effective policing,” he said.
Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo, the Inspector General of the Namibian Police, shared these sentiments, praising the collaborative effort that led to the station’s completion.
“This new station is more than just bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of hope, justice, and the well-being of our people. It will significantly improve our capacity to prevent crime, respond swiftly to incidents, and reinforce public trust in law enforcement,” he said.
According to Shikong, crime remains a pressing issue in the Erongo region, with reports of gender-based violence, drug trafficking, and property-related crimes on the rise.
The general also stressed the importance of community involvement in tackling crime, calling on residents to work hand-in-hand with law enforcement.
“A safe community is not the responsibility of the police alone – it requires the active involvement of every citizen,” he urged.
The new station is not Rössing Uranium Limited’s first investment in local law enforcement.
In April 2024, the company donated N$750 000 to the police in the Erongo region for the servicing and maintenance of police vehicles in Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and Arandis.
The mining company’s latest contribution, valued at N$20.7 million, is a further demonstration of its commitment to strengthening security in the region.
Shikongo said that residents of the DRC settlement can look forward to improved security, faster police response times, and a greater sense of safety.
