Oshana Police say they have made tremendous improvements in combating and resolving complex crimes, as they strive to improve real-time reaction to armed robberies.
In his New Year's address, Oshana Police Commander Naftal Sakaria highlighted some cases resolved over the past year, including the attempted murder of a Public Prosecutor at Ondangwa and a murder case at Ondangwa, where the deceased was found with his testicles removed and burnt.
Over the festive season, 50 suspects —involved in various crimes – were arrested.
"During the 2024\2025 festive season, a total of 1,716 cases were registered, compared to 1,291 cases recorded during the 2025\2026 festive season. This represents a decrease of 24%, and this is commendable."
Thirty-seven cases of drunk driving were recorded during the 2024/2025 festive season, compared to 34 cases recorded during the 2025/2026 period.
Commissioner Sakaria says an increase in the number of road fatalities was recorded, from two in 2024/2025 to seven during the 2025/2026 period.
"Looking at the two festive season numbers of housebreaking cases registered, they remain more or less the same. While this could be attributed to several factors, such as houses left unattended for long periods, the public buying stolen goods, thus creating a market, insurance fraud, etc., we still need to strategise to ensure that housebreaking is brought under control."
He says policing in the modern world is a complex task that requires a strategic approach that appreciates the role of technology.
This prompted Oshana police to launch a CCTV project late last year, and the initiative continues to offer police leverage against crime in terms of both deterrence and investigations.
"This year, we will continue to challenge ourselves by setting a vision beyond sight. We are considering drone technology. Acquiring drones will give us aerial superiority in terms of tracking criminals and implementing preventive protocols across the region."
Sackaria appeals to the business community to come on board and assist the police in the fight against crime in the region