Contribution of the joint operations on crime prevention in Namibia: A case of Wanaheda police station area of jurisdiction in Khomas region

Abstract

The general objective of this study was to understand the contribution of joint operations on crime prevention at Wanaheda Police Station area of jurisdiction in Khomas Region, Namibia. It was an exploratory type of research, which adopted a qualitative approach. The study population comprised of two categories namely the law enforcement officers who were participating in the joint operations, as well as that of service recipients comprising Constituency Councillors and the communities within the Wanaheda Police Station area of jurisdiction. The study collected both primary and secondary data from the field using a qualitative questionnaire and the records provided by the Namibian Police Force. The data were analysed according to themes, guided by the research objectives and presented in narratives. The main findings of the study revealed that crime statistics does not always represent the actual prevalence of crime; the joint operations increased the capability of the law enforcement in providing guardianship to the targets against offenders; the joint operations enhanced the public trust and confidence on the law enforcement; spontaneous implementation of the joint operations can lead to challenges; and the joint operations cannot be the complete solution to crime prevention as there are other factors involved. The study has revealed a number of challenges and suggestions thereto, which the law enforcement authorities should unpack in order to find solutions thereto. The study drew its conclusions from the findings. It then recommended for the joint operations to be sustained and improved; the establishment of the joint operation centre to provide clear mandates and oversee the implementation of the joint operations in Namibia; Government to develop programmes and initiatives to address social development behaviours, the environmental designs, as well as closing the gaps in laws; and for NamPol to establish periodic public satisfaction and or consultation surveys. Lastly, the study recommended for other researchers to build on this research, by exploring further on areas such on the relationship between social development behaviours, environmental design, as well as community policing and crime prevention