Senior officers of NamPol's border and infrastructure protection directorate are gathered in Rundu to, among others, look at strategies to combat cross-border crime.
Law enforcement officers stationed at borders deal with a host of challenges, including fleet and staff shortages, inadequate accommodation, and not enough uniforms.
The feeding of members deployed in remote areas was also a concern, but a recent financial boost means that meals will now be taken care of.
"I am delighted to inform you that the feeding programme has been reinstated and an amount of N$20 million for the financial years 2025-2026, 2026-2027, and 2027-2028 has been allocated for such a purpose," announced Kavango East Regional Commander Andreas Haingura.
Delivering the speech on behalf of Police Inspector General Joseph Shikongo, Commissioner Haingura said there are certain border crimes on the increase and serious intervention is needed to curb them.
"Of late, it was observed an increase in cases of drug trafficking in the country as well as smuggling of fuel and contraband from neighbouring countries, which are mostly in the Omusati, Omaheke, and Ohangwena regions. Moreover, it is significant to note that the current threat of illegal fishing along our territorial waters by foreign-flagged vessels remains a challenge and should be prioritised to address and curb it before it escalates."
The Mayor of Rundu, Gabriel Kanyanga, urged the law enforcement officers to keep up, particularly in today's globalised policing environment.
"Effective policing along the borders and the security of strategic installations are central to the scope of policing. The challenges we face at our borders and critical infrastructure points are ever-evolving. It is our responsibility as a country, particularly NamPol to adapt, innovate, and strengthen your strategies to effectively counter these threats."
Kavango East and West will conduct a joint border patrol from 12 to 14 October 2024, and members of the force are ordered to leave no stone unturned.