Law enforcement officials in the Ohangwena Region are facing an uphill battle in their efforts to curb the increasing rates of illegal fuel smuggling at the Oshikango border and surrounding villages.

nbc's reporter Ndapanda Shuuya and cameraman Eddy Eneas visited Oshikango.

The border fence between Namibia and Angola is characterised by numerous holes that facilitate unrestricted and illegal border crossing.

The surge in fuel prices in Namibia has contributed to the growth of illegal fuel trading, aggravating the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies.

Unemployed youths involved in the illicit trade argue that this business is their only means of survival and from which they support their families.

However, this illegal activity has had detrimental effects on filling stations at Oshikango, which are struggling to make fuel sales.

The police in Ohangwena have acknowledged the severity of the situation and are now intensifying efforts, but with limited manpower, the fight is proving to be an uphill battle.

The community is being encouraged to support local businesses and uphold the rule of law, as doing so can help restore stability and foster an environment that discourages illicit activities.

In the Ohangwena Region alone, the police confiscate over 40,000 litters of fuel from illegal traders per month, which is sent for refinery in Walvis Bay.