Omusati Regional Commander of the Namibian Police, Commissioner Ismael Basson, says the relationship between the community and the police is critical in maintaining public safety and effective policing.

Basson held a meeting with the business community in the Omusati Region to discuss safety at their businesses and the importance of them reporting crime or unruly behavior at their premises.

He stated that it is the responsibility of business people to ensure the safety and security of their clients and that they do not become mere spectators of crimes, which can have adverse consequences.

"When it comes to renewal of licenses, application of licenses, those things can count against you as a business person. If we find that at a particular bar there are too many fights, people are being killed now and then, it will affect your renewal. We can say this is a problematic bar and it cannot be given a license and that will be the end of your business."

Those selling alcohol until late at night were reminded to keep their liquor licenses on hand at all times. They were warned that the police would arrest the owners and their employees if they were found in transgression of the law.

He also vowed to ensure that the law is maintained effectively and efficiently without fear or favour.

"We should be friends but not with benefits. If you are my friend, stay within the law. Don't want me to protect you for being wrong, and you are calling me to say, 'Basson, can you help me out here?' We don't help people out, we are just enforcing the law. We don't change laws. What we are doing is enforcing what is on paper."