Namibia has recorded a sharp increase in serious crimes during the 2024/2025 festive season, with cases increasing by 114%. 

Between November and December 2025, reported criminal incidents climbed from 1,261 cases in the previous year to 2,702 cases.

Most major crime categories recorded significant increases, including assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, which rose sharply from 258 to 777 cases. Rape cases increased from 148 to 231. 

Housebreaking and theft incidents more than doubled, climbing from 282 to 623 cases.

Drug-related crimes also surged, with drug possession and dealing cases rising from 90 to 301.

Despite the overall rise, some serious crimes showed a decline. 

Murder cases dropped from 56 to 28, culpable homicide decreased from 50 to 21, and cases involving protected game products fell slightly from 32 to 28. 

However, the number of suspect arrests declined by 11%, from 645 to 571, raising concerns about the enforcement capacity.

The |Khomas Region recorded the highest number of incidents, with 714 cases, followed by Erongo with 448 and Ohangwena with 378.

Other regions reported crime figures ranging from 7 to 266 cases.

Omaheke experienced decreases in robberies, assaults, and housebreaking cases, while Kavango West also reported a reduction in certain crime categories.

Gender-based violence remains a major concern. 

The 231 rape cases recorded during November/December 2025 show a notable increase compared to 148 cases in the same period in 2024. Nationwide, police documented 4,405 GBV cases between April 2024 and February 2025.

Authorities also confirmed that investigations are ongoing into the Okahandja murders of two minors, five-year-old Ingrid Haylee Maasdorp and 6-year-old Roswinds Fabiano, cases that have drawn national attention.

Police attribute the crime surge to increased social movement, alcohol consumption, and economic pressures commonly associated with the festive season. 

Law enforcement officials have called for stronger community involvement, increased police visibility, and responsible social behaviour to help curb crime.