Windhoek: Telecom Namibia has warned that the escalating copper theft is threatening critical telecommunications infrastructure and putting lives at risk, calling for stronger law enforcement and government intervention. Telecom Namibia Chief Executive Officer Stanley Shanapinda highlighted the severity of the issue during a strategic engagement meeting involving the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT), Telecom Namibia, and PowerCom (Pty) Ltd. According to Namibia Press Agency, Shanapinda emphasized that copper theft has become a national crisis, with rising incidents of vandalism disrupting services and endangering workers. He pointed out that as long as second-hand dealers continue purchasing copper, theft will persist. The company is actively engaging with authorities to tighten regulation and enforcement. Shanapinda revealed the increasing aggressiveness of criminals, citing a recent incident where a security guard was allegedly shot at while protecting a site in Windhoek's Katut ura area. He expressed concern for the safety of guards, whose lives are now at risk while performing their duties. The ongoing theft of copper cables undermines network reliability and affects service delivery, even as the demand for connectivity grows across the country. Despite the Communications Act imposing penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment or a fine of N. dollars 1 million for offenders, incidents continue unabated. Telecom Namibia is advocating for ministerial engagement with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security to strengthen the regulation of scrap metal dealers. This includes conducting both announced and unannounced inspections to ensure compliance. Shanapinda acknowledged the high demand for telecom services but lamented that infrastructure limitations, exacerbated by vandalism, hinder expansion and service delivery. The meeting, attended by ICT Minister Emma Theofelus, also addressed sector challenges, infrastructure development, and collaboration between state- owned entities.