The Head of the Police Higher Profile Investigations Division, Florietha Jantjies, says the Ohangwena Region has recorded 14 cases of human trafficking, of which six are on the court roll. 

Deputy Commissioner Jantjies was speaking at the belated commemoration of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, held at Onehova Village in the Omundaungilo Constituency.

"Based on the identified trends of the trafficking of young boys between Angola and Namibia and also between Zambia and Namibia for employment in Namibia as cattle herders or domestic workers, we are reminded to closely monitor the situation and to maintain close relations with law enforcement and other stakeholders from the neighbouring countries and also in the same vein to curb the trafficking of children and adults from the rural areas to the urban areas across the country."

Jantjies further called on continuous collaboration with stakeholders in the fight against human trafficking.

In a speech read on his behalf, Ohangwena Governor Sebastian Ndeitunga also highlighted the need for joint efforts by stakeholders to combat trafficking in persons in the country.

"There has been an increase in the crime of trafficking in persons in the world, Namibia also included. It has also been recorded that the crime of trafficking in persons has been perpetrated towards both females and males from different age groups, but most towards children because of their vulnerability, family background, as well as social and economic context."

Chief Immigration Officer Albertina Shilongo cautioned members of the public to desist from trafficking people.
 
"You are employing others' children to look after your livestock, and you are not even paying them while your children are pursuing their studies. Dear Namibian Nation, let us refrain from such evil acts. Love the other person's child as your own. Whoever will be found practicing trafficking in persons will be dealt with accordingly."