City loses plants, flowers worth N$70 000 to thieves

The City of Windhoek says it has lost newly planted flowers, trees, shrubs and other plants throughout Windhoek, to the value of N$70 000, to thieves

City spokesperson Lydia Amutenya said yesterday: “Notably, all trees and shrubs planted along Independence Avenue in commemoration of Arbour Day 2023 were illegally uprooted and stolen.”

Amutenya said the City last week discovered that about 30 different types of plants to the value of N$70 000 were stolen.

The planted trees are part of the 400 indigenous trees/shrubs and 100 flower boxes that the FNB pledged to donate to the City of Windhoek over a three-year period.

Amutenya said the City is dedicated to creating a more vibrant and aesthetically pleasing environment for its residents.

The removal or theft of planted greenery not only obstructs the City’s beautification initiatives, but also undermines the sense of community and pride the city aims to foster among its residents, Amutenya said.

In a media statement on Sunday, she said the recurring theft of plants in green spaces in the city is hindering efforts to enhance the quality of life for everyone in the Windhoek community.

She urged community members to report any suspicious activity related to the theft of planted greenery.

Incidents can be reported to the Windhoek City Police at (061) 302 302, or by sending an SMS to 4444.

Amutenya said yesterday that no police case has been opened and there was no CCTV footage of the plants being removed.