Windhoek targets 5000 cameras
Windhoek City Police is planning a major expansion of its surveillance network, with the number of cameras across the capital expected to increase from about 500 to between 3000 and 5000 as the force strengthens its use of technology to prevent crime and improve public safety.
The expansion forms part of the City Police’s Smart Policing Strategy, which is aimed at moving policing from a largely reactive approach towards proactive and preventative crime-fighting. The strategy was presented by Chief Leevi Shivolo Ileka, Head of the Windhoek City Police, during a visit by Minister Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus and MICT management and staff to the City Police on Wednesday.
The City Police is already using a range of technology-driven tools, including surveillance cameras, drones, body-worn cameras, automated traffic enforcement and number-plate recognition systems. Three drones are currently operational, with plans to expand the fleet, while panic-button systems and sensors are also being used to protect critical infrastructure. According to the Smart Policing Strategy, technology, data and targeted surveillance are being used to identify potential threats and enable police to respond to incidents before they escalate.
The approach is intended to strengthen crime prevention while improving response times and enhancing public safety across Windhoek. The engagement was welcomed by City of Windhoek Mayor Sakaria Uunona, who received the minister and her delegation and officiated the engagement. Theofelus welcomed the City Police’s use of technology and expressed appreciation for efforts to build a safer and smarter Windhoek.
