A recent surge in break-ins at legal institutions has prompted heightened concerns over the security of sensitive legal data.

Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi addressed the alarming trend during a conversation with this reporter, shedding light on the gravity of the situation.

Shikwambi expressed deep concern over the targeted nature of these incidents, stating, "The deliberate targeting of court facilities is a serious threat to the integrity of the legal system."

She says criminals not only seek physical assets but are also aiming to compromise vital information stored on electronic devices, potentially jeopardising ongoing cases.

She went on to highlight two specific incidents that have raised alarm within law enforcement circles. 

The first incident, occurring on the 2nd and 3rd of December 2023 at the Magistrates office in Otjiwarongo, involved the theft of case dockets and other unspecified items. In the second incident, which transpired on December 15, 2023, at the Office of the Judiciary High Court, criminals gained access through a back window and made off with a computer box (CPU) containing records of the High Court, valued at N$11,420.

Deputy Commissioner Shikwambi emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to address this issue, saying, "It is imperative that we enhance security measures at these institutions and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure the protection of sensitive data."

Police agencies are actively investigating these incidents and urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

As authorities work tirelessly to apprehend the perpetrators, Deputy Commissioner Shikwambi assured the public that steps are being taken to fortify security protocols, both in terms of physical premises and digital infrastructure. The community is urged to cooperate with law enforcement to curb this concerning trend and maintain the sanctity of the judicial process.