Windhoek—Namibian Police Force (NamPol) Inspector General, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo, has officially responded to allegations claiming that traffic law enforcement officers are disproportionately targeting operators of seven-seater vehicles. Shikongo emphasized that all operators are subject to the same regulations, dismissing any claims of biased enforcement practices.

According to Namibia Press Agency, seven-seater vehicles that possess the appropriate public transportation permits are allowed to operate within the bounds of those permits. “Vehicles operating without public transportation permits are treated in the same manner as any other operator without such a permit,” he explained. Shikongo clarified that NamPol has not authorized any practices that would specifically discriminate against seven-seater transport operators under the existing legislation, including the Road Traffic and Transportation Act 22 of 1999 and the Road Transportation Act 74 of 1977.

“Our traffic law enforcement officers carry out their duties professionally and without favouritism or discrimination. We want to assure the public that we will always strive to protect the lives and property of our citizens and maintain law and order,” Shikongo stated. He further urged any transportation operator with grievances to present their complaints to any station commander in their respective areas, reinforcing NamPol’s commitment to fairness and legal compliance in its operations.