Rossing Uranium has sponsored the construction of a N$20 million police station at Swakopmund's DRC informal settlement.

Construction is set to begin this month.

Residents at the DRC informal settlement and Matutura travel to Mondesa police station, which is about 10 kilometres away, for services.

They have complained to the Swakopmund municipality that it takes longer for the police to respond to their emergencies.

The municipality therefore donated land for the construction of a police station, which will be funded by Rossing Uranium.

"The establishment of this police station will enhance our law enforcement capabilities, provide a stronger presence in the community, and foster a safer environment for all," said Swakopmund Mayor Dina Namubes.

Speaking on behalf of the sponsors was Johan Coetzee, the Managing Director of Rossing Uranium. "Last financial year, as the mayor said, we had more than 8,700 crimes reported in this town, and it's on the increase, and the police have a tough job, especially when it's far away from where they are based to assist the residents." 

Police Inspector General Joseph Shikongo commended the donors for equipping the force with the resources and tools needed to combat crime.

However, he says there is chaos in the community, and education is needed to help change people's mindsets.

"Most of the car accidents we experience are because of the attitude of our people, you know. So if we can just change that, people are moving around with knives, operating businesses at odd hours. Because whether you have 10,000 police officers or 100,000 police officers, if the attitude of our community doesn't change, crime will be there because crimes are committed within the communities there, even if we have to put up a police station here in the DRC."

In delivering the Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security Minister's remarks, Executive Director Etienne Maritz highlighted the power of collaboration.

"The construction of this police station is a testament to what can be achieved when government, corporate entities, and communities come together with a shared vision. It is a clear indication that we can overcome any challenge and build a brighter future for all." 

According to the police, crimes that are regularly reported include ATM fraud, drunk driving, substance abuse, theft, and robberies.

Moreover, physical attacks on commuters and fatal stabbings are on the rise. Police statistics indicate that three people were stabbed to death on three weekends in a row.