The Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Joseph Shikongo, has called on communities to take an active stand against crime, warning that police efforts alone cannot succeed without public involvement.

Speaking during a community engagement in Walvis Bay, Lieutenant General Shikongo said most criminals come from within the communities they terrorise, and stolen goods are often sold and bought locally.

"Nobody will commit a crime because if someone comes with a bag of clothes, you'll all ask, 'Where did you get those clothes?' 'Where are the papers if you're selling a TV?' Immediately, you take the person and call the police. They will never come back to you, but if you keep on buying stolen meat and keep on buying stolen items, you are telling the person, 'We are here; we are your client.' We are the people who are encouraging these actions."

The Inspector General expressed concern over the rising tide of alcohol and drug abuse in coastal towns, describing it as a major driver of crime and social decay.

He also expressed deep concern for the tourism sector, stating that it is disheartening to see visitors become victims of crime at a time when the industry is still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Community members welcomed the engagement, echoing calls for stronger cooperation between residents and the police to restore safety and peace across the Erongo Region.