The Oshikoto Regional Commander's Parade was held today at the Police Headquarters in Omuthiya.
The event consisted of various activities, such as medal awarding to the members of the police force, promotions, and preparations for the upcoming Tsumeb Copper Festival 2022 and the approaching festive season.
Fourteen medals were awarded, among them the Decoration for Outstanding Meritorious Service of the Highest Order (OMS), which was awarded to Warrant Officer Kephas Kamati of the Special Reserve Force.
This award is given to a member who has distinguished himself or herself by rendering outstanding meritorious service and utmost devotion to duty on the grounds.
Another award was the Wound Medal, which was awarded to Inspector Paulus, the head of the Firearms Control Unit. The recipient of the Namibian Police Service gold medal is Chief Inspector Shilongo of the VIP subdivision, who has served the force for 30 years.
Six police force members were promoted to various ranks. Among these was Chief Inspector Wynand Hermanus Neels, who was promoted to the rank of Deputy Commissioner and now heads the operations division.
Inspector Hermine Kasiku Arachas was promoted to the rank of Chief Inspector and will be serving as the regional traffic coordinator in Oshikoto. This position was previously held by now-Deputy Commissioner Neels.
Oshikoto Regional Commander, Commissioner Teopoline Kalompo-Nashikaku congratulated those who received medals and promotions.
She said the force is gearing up and busy preparing for the upcoming copper festival in Tsumeb as well as the festive season.
"I want to assure the public in our region that the men and women in uniform are here and ready for their safety. You do not have to be worried, as you are celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Eve with your family. We are ready, our boots will be on the ground and ready for action this coming holiday season," said Commissioner Teopoline Kalompo-Nashikaku.
She also sent out a stern warning to those planning to commit crimes, saying that the police force will be on the lookout for such criminals.