The Namibian Police will join police agencies around the world to mark the United Nations’ International Day of Police Cooperation on Monday.
National police spokesperson deputy commissioner Kauna Shikwambi said this on Sunday.
Shikwambi highlighted the growing importance of cross-border collaboration in tackling crime.
The day, observed on 7 September, is themed ‘Global Police Cooperation for Global Security’.
Shikwambi said international cooperation has become increasingly important as criminals exploit national borders to commit crimes.
She said the crimes range from online fraud and human trafficking to drug smuggling and the movement of illicit money and firearms.
“Every day, crime crosses borders,” she said.
She said fugitives often attempt to evade justice by moving between countries.
Through its National Central Bureau-Interpol (NCB-Interpol) Windhoek, the police are using this year’s observance to highlight the practical results of international police cooperation, Shikwambi said.
These include the arrest and extradition of fugitives, drug seizures and the seizure of firearms, which Shikwambi said demonstrate how cooperation between law enforcement agencies can translate into tangible security outcomes.
She said officers attached to NCB-Interpol Windhoek play a key role in facilitating the exchange of information, coordinating investigations and supporting operations with law enforcement agencies in other countries.
The police on Sunday said such cooperation is not merely about linking police institutions across borders, but about ensuring borders do not become barriers to justice.
“When law enforcement agencies work together, victims can be located and supported, missing persons can be reunited with their families, fugitives can be brought to justice, and dangerous criminal networks can be disrupted,” Shikwambi said.
This year’s International Day of Police Cooperation also emphasises protecting vulnerable people and strengthening public trust and legitimacy in policing.
The police said they remain committed to working with stakeholders, international partners and relevant forums in the fight against crime, with particular emphasis on strengthening cooperation with Interpol member countries and neighbouring states.
Shikwambi said stronger regional and international cooperation is necessary to build safer communities and ensure that criminals cannot exploit borders to escape accountability.
