Zambezi regional commander commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo has declared the 10-day simultaneous rollout of phase two of the Namibian police’s operation Zakawe a success.
Operation Zakawe was launched in 2020 and is a joint police initiative spanning three regions – the Zambezi, Kavango West and Kavango East regions. Phase two of the operation ran from 3 to 12 August.
Speaking at a debriefing session at the regional police headquarters on Wednesday, Sakuwa-Neo praised officers for their professionalism, courage and attention to detail.
“Over the past week we have witnessed not only the strength and discipline of our members, but also the depth of our commitment to protecting the community we serve,” she said.
According to the regional commander, the 10-day collaborative effort involved various law enforcement entities, including community police, correctional services, the Namibia Revenue Agency and the respective government divisions for immigration, forestry and fisheries.
She noted that the initiative disrupted criminal syndicates, reduced crime rates, pre-emptively detected serious offenses and strengthened public trust.
Despite facing challenges like poor public cooperation and physical confrontations with law enforcement agents, 1 454 illicit items were confiscated in the Zambezi region alone and traffic fines valued at N$59 500 were issued, she said.
Furthermore, law enforcement agents inspected 20 liquor outlets, forcing four to shut down for various non-compliance issues, and arrested 15 undocumented immigrants in the Zambezi region.
“These are not just operational wins but are steps towards a safer and more secure environment for every citizen. We will continue to conduct joint operations as they pool essential resources, including vehicles and human capital,” she emphasised.
According to Sakuwa-Neo, authorities recommended convening a meeting with neighbouring Zambia and Angola to address border management.
This comes after officials identified numerous border violations and illegal crossings along the porous Zambia-Namibia border, as well as the Namibia-Angola border in the two Kavango regions.
“The cross-border dialogue aims to curb illegal immigration, the influx of illicit goods and other social ills. Together, we have proven that when we stand united, there is no challenge too great, no threat too strong and no mission beyond our reach. Let us carry this spirit forward, not just as officers of the law, but as guardians of peace,” she said.
– Nampa
