The police in the ||Kharas Region have officially launched the road safety festive season operations today at Keetmanshoop.

The Divisional Head of Crime Prevention in the ||Kharas Region, Godfried Kauhanda, said although the region recorded relatively fewer road crashes, most of the incidents were influenced by alcohol. 

"So we are really appealing to the motorist to limit the intake of alcohol. When you know you are travelling, the best option is to not drink and drive because here we are going to screen you, and you are going to be stopped, and unfortunately, we have to arrest you and cut your road short."

Kauhanda further noted heavy cross-border movement with travellers and trucks entering from South Africa.

"During the festive season, most people are going on holiday; they are travelling, leaving their houses behind, which means the influx of vehicles on the roads is too much. That's why these exercises on the roadblock are very vital. At these roadblocks, we screen alcohol, we check driving licences, we check the roadworthiness of all vehicles, and we make sure that those who are travelling are safe."

||Kharas Regional Council, Acting Chief Regional Officer, Ralph Sachicka, emphasised that safety is a collective responsibility.

"Make sure we commit to safer roads and safer communities. As we conclude, let us reaffirm our commitment to working together to reduce road safety and accidents and promote responsible driving to ensure Namibian men and women and the nation's safety and security are upheld."