Members of the public are discouraged from giving money to children and adults living and working on the street.

The Head of Windhoek City Police, Chief Leevi Ileka, made the call at a media briefing in Windhoek.

Chief Ileka says the Windhoek City Police Service has been experiencing with great concern the increasing number of people living and working on the street.

Ileka adds that they have noted that the majority of street robberies reported, especially in the Central Business District, are committed by people living and working on the street. 

"A woman fell victim to robbery when she was approached by these individuals asking for money. While she was busy taking out money to give them, they grabbed the victim's cellphone and ran off. It is against this background that the Windhoek City Police Service wishes to discourage members of the public from giving money to children and adults living and working on the street."

He also urges residents and visitors to refrain from giving money to people living on the streets, as it supports unhealthy habits that keep them trapped in the cycle of homelessness while hindering long-term solutions offered to them by service providers.

"Members of the public who are willing to assist can channel resources to the relevant service providers, already in place and responsible for social services such as after-school care centres and safe homes."

Chief Ileka cautions members of the public to be on the lookout for scams related to rental and school placement, as well as theft under false pretences—incidents common at the beginning of the year.

"As the new year commences and schools reopen, an increasing number of residents are diligently seeking enrollment for their children. Unfortunately, this surge in activity also coincides with a rise in criminal incidents, particularly cases of theft under false pretences."

He warned members of the public to guard against falling victim to such scams and to report any suspicious persons or activities to the Windhoek City Police.