OSHANA REGION — Namibian Police Force Commander for the Oshana Region, Commissioner Naftal Lungameni Sakaria, highlighted the critical role of community partnerships in crime prevention during the Oshana police women network workshop in Ongwediva. Emphasizing the need for professionalism and mutual respect, Sakaria outlined the expectations communities have of law enforcement and the reflective impact of police actions on their institution.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Sakaria addressed the gathering on Wednesday, focusing on the importance of community engagement in maintaining law and order. “Anything less than professionalism and respect will not be tolerated. Our role as law enforcement officers is to protect, serve, and uphold the law, and that responsibility comes with high expectations from the communities we serve,” he explained. The commissioner also touched on issues unrelated to police duties, such as the inappropriate demands by debt collectors at police facilities, clarifying that such matters should be resolved through legal channels rather than law enforcement.

Deputy Commissioner Nangula Iifo, head of the Women Network, spoke on the challenges posed by rising crime rates and the need for a shift in mindset to enhance crime-fighting efficacy. Iifo also shed light on the objectives of the Oshana Women Network, which aims to promote women’s roles within the force and foster inclusive dialogue about female participation, leadership, empowerment, and freedom in a predominantly male sector.