Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The Namibian Police have changed their approach to tackling crime in Windhoek by rezoning the city to improve operations in areas like Havana and Hakahana, where criminal activity is increasing.
Deputy Commissioner Chrispin Mubebo confirmed the move as part of broader efforts to address safety concerns and ongoing robberies near unfinished roads and infrastructure.
“We have rezoned the City of Windhoek to make sure that our strategies are effective,” said Mubebo. “Operations are ongoing within the city and Khomas Region as a whole to ensure the safety of all people.”
Police are investigating several robbery cases, including one where a man was robbed of N$1 600 and a cellphone worth over N$5 000. The suspects reportedly pretended to offer help. They allegedly shot at a person who attempted to assist.
“We are aware of the shooting incident in that area, and at that specific time, it was police officers who fired shots at would-be criminal elements. An investigation into their conduct is still being conducted,” Mubebo said.
The rise in crime comes amid public frustration over trenches along Peter Nanyemba (Monte Cristo) Road and the Hakahana–Havana corridor. Road construction and electrical work have been ongoing for months.
Residents say there are no barricades or warning signs and that police presence is lacking, especially at night.
They say five vehicles have fallen into the open trenches, and children have been seen playing near the exposed areas.
Mubebo said that infrastructure issues fall under the City of Windhoek, but police are advising the city based on crime trends and providing support.
“Police officers are not trigger-happy, but should we be put in a corner, we have teeth to bite,” he said. “We operate professionally within the law and obey the code of conduct.”
He said the police are using both manpower and technology to fight crime.
“With the introduction of the smart city concept, we have embraced using technology to patrol areas where actual police visibility may not be seen. We have several CCTV cameras installed and are still installing more,” Mubebo said.
He said patrols and investigations will continue and that the police are working closely with the city police.
“We share resources and manpower with the City Police. The communication between us is sound,” Mubebo said.
The City of Windhoek previously said the trenches along Peter Nanyemba Road are part of ongoing electrical service installations, not sewer infrastructure.
According to city spokesperson Lydia Amutenya, the contractor replaces the warning signs and barricades every week despite frequent vandalism.
“The intersections currently under construction are scheduled for completion by the end of April 2025, with full roadworks expected to be finalised by the end of June 2025,” Amutenya said.
