TSUMEB: The Namibian Police Force (NamPol) in the Oshikoto Region on Friday launched a campaign aimed at educating schoolchildren against vandalism, gangsterism and alcohol abuse.

Oshikoto Regional Police Commander, Commissioner Anne-Marie Nainda launched the campaign at the Tsumeb Senior Secondary School on Friday morning.

“It is very important that learners also get to know the consequences they might face if one is caught involved in crimes like possession of dangerous weapons, vandalism of State assets or public indecency,” stated Commissioner Nainda.

She told Nampa in an interview on Friday shortly after the official launch and her presentation to the learners that her office receives numerous complaints of public disorder committed by secondary school learners here.

Nainda said Tsumeb learners are allegedly involved in weekend socialising parties, during which they abuse alcohol.

She also discouraged teenage pregnancy as well as abortion.

“If you are not comfortable to carry that child, please come to me, inform us or inform a social worker at the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare for professional assistance,” stressed the commissioner.

Learners of the Tsumeb Senior Secondary School sat quietly as Nainda continued to explain to them the different types of crimes in Namibia.

She said the use of cannabis and other prohibited drugs inside school premises and/or out of school yards is a serious crime by law.

“Carrying dangerous sharp objects like knives, screw drivers, pangas and firearms in this school yard – be aware that it is not allowed. If we catch you in possession of it you will be arrested, charged and brought before the court of law,” warned Nainda.

The senior Police officer further advised learners to abstain from offences like malicious damage to properties, culpable homicide, indecent assault, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, break-ins with intent to commit an offence, and robbery.

The campaign will be rolled out to the Oshikoto Senior Secondary School on Monday and the Opawa High School on Tuesday.