The Oshana Region has effectively managed crime, showing a decline last year compared to 2024.

The statistic was revealed by Oshana Regional Crime Investigation Coordinator Deputy Commissioner Fredrik Ndjadila in an interview with NBC News.

Despite overall crime control in the region, Ndjadila noted that housebreaking and gender-based violence remain significant challenges.

According to police statistics, overall crime in Oshana stood at 11,711 cases in 2024, a figure that decreased to 11,393 last year, representing a reduction of 318.

He explained that the decrease excludes police-generated cases, which are criminal matters originating directly from police initiatives rather than public complaints or reports; these account for 10% of reported crimes.

Ndjadila attributed the decline to various police operational strategies implemented in the region.

These include increased community engagement through meetings at churches and other public spaces, as well as the introduction of tactical police operational hours.

He added that building strong partnerships with community members, women’s and men’s networks, and the growing willingness of the public to join as police reservists have all contributed to the significant reduction in crime.

Ndjadila further noted that public trust in the police has improved through the implementation of POL 713, which mandates investigators to provide feedback to complainants on the status of their cases.