Mallex Shipanga
The Omaheke Region is experiencing a surge in vehicle accessory theft, with ten cases reported between September and November, according to the Namibian Police’s regional head of community policing, Chief Inspector Fina Sakajengenga.
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with these crimes.
“Criminals are stealing wheels and other accessories from vehicles by using special tools to unlock universal lock nuts on wheels. They target vehicles where the house fence or boundary wall is low as well as houses without garages and dogs. Vehicles owned by females and motor mechanic garages without security guards and CCTV cameras are also targeted,” she said.
According to Sakajengenga, the criminals are targeting vehicle accessories such as mirrors, spotlights, and wheels.
She explained that vehicle accessory theft is generally committed between the hours of 22h00 and 04h00 while people are asleep as well as 09h00 to 10h00 while people are at work.
Events and gatherings have been a hot spot for vehicle accessory theft.
“They target vehicles at gatherings such as weddings, funerals, rallies, and church services, while the vehicle owners are attending the event. They take advantage of this opportunity to steal vehicle wheels and other accessories, according to Sakajengenga.”
Sakajengenga outlined preventative measures for vehicle owners.
“Vehicle owners are encouraged to increase the height of their fences and boundary walls around their yards and to keep dogs at their residence to discourage easy access by criminals. Business owners should employ security guards and install CCTV cameras at their business premises,” she said.
Sakajengenga discouraged the public from buying car accessories without the proper documentation.
“The public is strongly encouraged to establish neighbourhood watch groups to watch and protect each other’s properties against criminals,” she said.
She said the police have started their festive season operations and are encouraging citizens to join the police in the fight against crime.
