The Namibian Police in the Zambezi Region held a power transition with a "handing and taking over" ceremony for outgoing Regional Commander Commissioner Andreas Shilelo and incoming Commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo.

Zambezi Regional Governor Dorothy Kabula praised Commissioner Shilelo’s unwavering hard work, noting that his efforts with the Liselo-Kamenga anti-stock theft operation stand as a testament.

Deputy Inspector-General for Operations Major General Elias Mutota called on Commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo to raise the bar set by her predecessor, especially regarding the challenges facing the region.

Commissioner Andreas Shilelo, who assumed command of the region in September 2022, highlighted that despite massive progress during his tenure, collaborative measures with traditional leaders along the border are still needed to eradicate stock theft completely.

Incoming Regional Commander Sakuwa-Neo, who brings 30 years of experience, said she wishes to honour her predecessor’s legacy by supporting the over 100 community policing groups. She added that she will focus on building police officers' morale.

The regional commander is committed to engaging with regional leadership to strategise on issues of concern.