Havana residents call for closer police services
Residents of Havana Extension 11 in Windhoek face challenges accessing police services, with Thomas Festus from Body of Christ Party (BCP) calling on the government to introduce mobile policing and consider establishing a police station in the area. The concerns were raised in the National Assembly, where Festus questioned whether the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security had plans to improve access to policing for residents who reportedly live about five kilometres from the nearest police station.
According to him, residents must navigate difficult terrain, including rivers and mountainous areas, to access police services. The distance and conditions could create additional difficulties for people seeking assistance, particularly during emergencies at night. Festus asked whether the ministry was aware of the challenges facing residents of Havana Extension 11 and why mobile police services or a police station had not been provided in the area. "When last did the police patrol that area to proctect the residents" he asked. He further asked what measures were planned to ensure residents could access services without travelling long distances.
Among the proposals raised was the acquisition of land for the construction of a permanent police station to improve safety and bring services closer to the community. Festus said improved access to policing was necessary to protect residents and ensure they could obtain assistance when needed, including for routine services such as the certification of documents. The concerns place the spotlight on access to essential public services in Windhoek's expanding residential areas, particularly where distance and difficult terrain may affect residents' ability to seek help.
The ministry was asked to outline its immediate plans for the area, including whether additional patrols, a mobile police unit or a permanent police station could be introduced.
