In recent years, there have been allegations of misconduct by the Namibian Police during operations such as Hornkrans and Kalahari Desert.
These incidents have shaken public trust in law enforcement, raising urgent questions about accountability and transparency.
Imagine a solution that can bridge the gap between the police and the communities they serve and help ensure fairness and justice all round.
Enter body-worn cameras (BWCs) – a vital tool that could help transform policing in Namibia.
Body cameras are small devices worn on a police officer’s uniform, helmet or glasses that record videos and audio of their interactions with the public.
These cameras capture an objective and real-time account of events.
The concept of BWCs emerged in the early 2000s in response to growing public demand for higher levels of responsibility in law enforcement.
This tool provides an unbiased record of police activities, helps reduce instances of misconduct, protects officers from false allegations and improves community relations.
The United Kingdom was one of the first countries to pilot BWC programmes, with various police forces adopting the technology to address public concerns and enhance policing effectiveness.
Countries such as the United States and Australia have also adopted BWCs with notable success.
Studies have shown a decrease in complaints against officers and a reduction in the use of force, underscoring the value of this technology.
JUSTICE AND FAIRNESS
Consider the claims of excessive use of force by Namibian police officers, particularly during Operations Hornkrans and Kalahari Desert.
It highlights the urgent need for BWCs.
When police conduct is questioned, these cameras provide clear evidence to help establish facts and reduce disputes.
This transparency is crucial for rebuilding public trust eroded by allegations of misconduct.
Measures like BWCs can deter such behaviour and help ensure justice and fairness.
It will make officers more mindful of their actions and encourage adherence to protocols and professionalism.
Moreover, BWCs enhance safety for both officers and citizens.
In volatile situations, the presence of a camera can de-escalate tensions, leading to safer outcomes.
If individuals know their actions are being recorded, they are less likely to act aggressively.
BWCs will also protect officers from unfounded accusations of misconduct.
For example, in the case of Nambondi v the Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, BWC footage could have been instrumental in establishing the truth.
HIGH STAKES SCENARIOS
This dual protection – for both the public and the police – fosters a safer and more respectful environment.
In addition, BWCs improve evidence collection. The footage captured can serve as crucial evidence in legal proceedings, providing an accurate account of incidents.
This leads to more effective investigations and fairer trials, as visual and audio records help corroborate or refute testimonies.
During traffic stops or public demonstrations, BWCs can document interactions comprehensively, aiding in dispute resolution and ensuring justice is served efficiently.
Consider the Okahandja shooting incident in April 2023, when five men lost their lives in an alleged planned robbery.
In such high stakes scenarios, BWC footage could have clarified events and ensured a fair investigation, enhancing the credibility of the judicial process.
In addition, the police are currently losing money by not implementing BWCs. Legal disputes, misconduct investigations and settlements come with significant financial costs that could be mitigated by clear and unbiased video evidence.
Implementing BWCs would be a cost-saving measure in the long run.
MODERN POLICING
While some argue that BWCs infringe on privacy, these concerns can be mitigated through strict data protection policies and transparency in their use.
The cost of implementing BWCs should be seen as an investment in building a more trustworthy and professional police force.
It must be accompanied by comprehensive training programmes for officers to ensure they understand the proper use of this technology and its role in enhancing public trust.
Clear guidelines and regular audits can help mitigate privacy issues.
Adopting BWC is not just a technological upgrade but a commitment to transparency, accountability and justice in Namibia.
This essential step towards modern policing will help foster a professional police force that the public can rely on and respect.
It’s time for Namibia to embrace this change.
- Michael Kavari holds a bachelor of policing practices (honours). This article is written in his personal capacity. kkavari10@gmail.com
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