The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security has called for a proactive and intelligence-driven approach to crime as Operation Basadi was officially launched on Friday.
Speaking at the launch in Windhoek, minister Lucia Iipumbu said the operation must not only focus on arrests and fines, but also on preventing crime, protecting lives and property, and strengthening public confidence in law-enforcement agencies.
“The government cannot afford to respond only after crime has occurred,” she said, urging security agencies to anticipate threats, prevent crime and respond swiftly when incidents occur.
Iipumbu reminded officers participating in the operation that their powers must be exercised lawfully, professionally and responsibly, with discipline, integrity, impartiality and respect for human dignity.
Iipumbu warned that misconduct, the abuse of authority and disrespectful treatment of the public could undermine efforts to build trust between communities and law enforcement.
She urged residents to cooperate with the police by reporting suspicious activities and providing information that could help prevent crime and identify suspects.
The minister said the fight against crime must remain within the Constitution, applicable laws, human rights principles and accountability standards.
She called on young people to reject criminality, violence and exploitation, saying Operation Basadi should be defined by professionalism, coordination, accountability and meaningful results.
