Mariental: The Namibian Police Force in the Hardap Region has reported a 10.7 percent overall decrease in crime between January and December 2024, with cases dropping from 4,600 in 2023 to 4,156 in 2024. The announcement was made during a media briefing held in Mariental on Wednesday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Head of NamPol's Regional Crime Investigations Division for Hardap, John Mwatongwe, stated that although this decline is slight, it is a crucial step toward a safer society. Mwatongwe commented that the reduction in crime, though minimal, signifies progress towards a safer and more secure region. He commended NamPol and the office of the Inspector General for their commendable strategies that are beginning to bear fruit, emphasizing that this is only the beginning of a path to a crime-free society.

The report indicated that the region reported 4,156 cases, of which 914 cases were through police crime prevention efforts, constituting 21.9 percent of the crimes reported in 2024. These police-generated cases include offenses such as drunk driving, possession and dealing in drugs, illegal hunting, and other traffic violations.

Gender-based violence (GBV) cases saw a decrease of 5.9 percent, robbery incidents declined by 16.1 percent, and domestic violence crimes were reduced by 50.2 percent. There was also a reduction in housebreaking of residential cases by 22.8 percent and theft cases by 5.2 percent.

Mwatongwe noted that while the region is known for its high rates of stock theft and drug-related crimes, stock theft decreased by 35.9 percent, though it remains a significant concern. In contrast to 2023, murder cases increased by 58.8 percent with 10 cases reported, while attempted murder incidents decreased by 62 percent.

Policing efforts such as street patrols and roadblocks were highlighted as contributing factors to the decline in crime. In Rehoboth, for example, a two-day operation resulted in searches of 200 individuals and the seizure of various weapons and drugs. Additionally, 520 vehicles were pulled over, 120 vehicles were searched, and 16 individuals were arrested during the operation in Rehoboth.

Mwatongwe concluded by emphasizing that the reduction in crime indicates that crime can be overcome with dedicated focus on areas of concern and timely interventions.