Festive season policing in the Erongo Region has yielded positive results, with an overall decrease in crime.

While there have been some successes, Erongo Police Commander Nikolaus Kupembona noted that challenges still persist.

Commissioner Kupembona said the festive season is traditionally marked by increased movement, social gatherings and alcohol consumption – factors that are often linked to a rise in crime. 

Kupembona indicated cases of assault, theft, and alcohol-related incidents were common, with certain hotspots recording the highest.

Areas of particular concern were the Mondesa, DRC, Kuisebmond, and Tutaleni policing areas, as well as high-traffic routes along the B2 road between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay and between Karibib and Usakos. 

The police had increased patrols, frequent roadblocks, stop-and-search operations, and heightened visible policing during peak hours, which helped deter criminal activity and enhance public safety.

Alcohol abuse remained a major contributing factor to violent crimes and road accidents.

"During the festive period, drug-related offences were most prevalent in the Erongo Region, with 43 cases reported and various drugs worth N$172,680.00 recovered, compared to 11 cases last year. Other crimes included theft and assaults (GBH), though overall crime declined compared to the previous year, despite the rise in drug-related crime."

Kupembona highlighted that cooperation from community members assisted the police in responding swiftly to crime, leading to several arrests and successful interventions.

"The festive season operations and roadblocks were highly effective in preventing crime and ensuring public safety. Crime statistics indicate that overall reported crime decreased by 10% compared to the same period last year. There was a notable decline in drunk driving, reckless and negligent driving, culpable homicide, and other traffic-related offences, demonstrating that increased police visibility and enforcement successfully deterred criminal behaviour and improved road safety during the holiday season."