Namibia Police Chief: "No Vehicles" Is Not an Excuse for Ignoring GBV Calls

The head of Namibia's police has ordered his officers to stop using a lack of vehicles as an excuse for failing to respond to gender-based violence calls. Police Inspector General Joseph Shikongo issued the direct instruction ahead of the busy festive season. He specifically told officers they must not tell the public they have no cars when called to incidents of GBV. The warning suggests that police vehicle shortages are a known problem. However, Shikongo's statement makes clear that this should not prevent responses to serious crimes. Gender-based violence is a major concern in Namibia, especially during holidays when reports often increase. The police chief's order emphasizes that addressing these crimes is an urgent priority.