Police in Keetmanshoop have teamed up with reformed ex-offender Paulus Shimweetheleni, known as ‘Ninja,’ to engage directly with young people about the consequences of crime.
During a recent police community engagement, residents raised concerns over the rising crime rate, fueled largely by gangsterism.
After serving 25 years in prison for robbery with aggravating circumstances and murder, Ninja has transformed his life and is now dedicated to steering others away from crime. Partnering with the police, he visited shebeens and clubs, where many young people gather, to share his story and discourage criminal involvement.
Keetmanshoop Police Station Commander, Chief Inspector Eino Kamukwanyama, who led the month-end operation, highlighted the importance of using different strategies to fight crime.
"When we fight crime, we must exhaust all avenues. If Plan A doesn’t work, we move to Plan B. Having Ninja on board is a great initiative because he speaks their language. Many of the boys we encounter have been in prison or are at risk of ending up there. He knows how to communicate with them and reach their hearts. This is just the beginning—we will assess the impact of this strategy, but I am confident it will work," Kamukwanyama said.
Shimweetheleni shared his observations from the engagement, expressing concern over the deep-rooted gangster culture in Keetmanshoop.
"I’ve noticed that even some women have tattoos identifying them as part of gangs. The concerning part is that most gang members here—the Hush-Hush, 26s, 27s, 28s—are all related. These are brothers, young Nama boys, and they are not even hiding it. They openly tell me, 'I’m 26, I’m 28.' The situation is getting out of hand, which is why we are taking a stand against crime," he said.
Ninja believes that some of the youth he spoke to took his message seriously and hopes it will lead to change.
Joined by boxing legends Harry Simon and Harry Simon Jr., Ninja is set to speak at a prayer service against crime on Sunday. He urged young people to attend in large numbers.