The police, in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney-General, hosted a training for police officers with the intention to reduce cases of unlawful arrest and detention and strengthen their understanding of constitutional rights.
Acting Inspector General of the Police, Anne-Marie Nainda, officiated at the opening of the training, highlighting the financial and reputational consequences of civil claims against the police.
Major General Nainda revealed that the force recorded 85 civil claims in the 2026/2027 financial year, of which 60 relate specifically to alleged unlawful arrest and detention.
She stressed that while arrest and detention are necessary tools for preventing and investigating crime, police officers must exercise these powers within the framework of the Constitution and applicable laws.
"Every arrest must be based on lawful grounds supported by object effects and carried out in accordance with prescribed procedures. Our responsibility is not only to apprehend suspected offenders but also to ensure that the rights, dignity and constitutional freedoms of every individual are respected throughout the law enforcement processes."
Speaking on behalf of the Attorney-General, Government Attorney Nelao Alexander said the training aims to promote lawful and professional policing, safeguard public resources and strengthen public confidence in the administration of justice.
Advocate Alexander added the initiative is about strengthening institutional cooperation, protecting human rights and preventing avoidable litigation that places additional pressure on public funds.
"This training seeks to bridge the operational and legal dynamics of arrest and detention. It brings together legal officers of the Office of the Government Attending and the operational members of the Namibian Police Force to develop a shared understanding of the legal requirements and governing unrest and detention, identify common procedural shortcomings and strengthen the manner in which these responsibilities are discharged."
She added that the office plans to extend similar engagements to regional police formations during the 2027/2028 financial year.