Bukalo: The lack of a permanent police station at Bukalo poses a threat to security and investment in the village, according to its Chief Executive Officer, Anna Lyamine Sazita. Speaking at the two-day Regional Development Coordinating Committee meeting broadcast live by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Sazita stated that Bukalo has lacked a police station since its proclamation and police officers operate from tents. “Our communities are crying. Equally investors are looking at the safety of their business,” she lamented.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Sazita said the lack of permanent infrastructure has led to a rise in crime, including the theft of electric copper wires. The temporary police post itself is vulnerable, located in bushes near the village sewer plant where the alarm systems are frequently stolen. The CEO questioned Zambezi Regional Police Commander, Commissioner Andreas Shilelo, on the timeline for constructing a proper station and urged him to mobilise resources for debushing the area. She also sought clarity on whether her office or the Ministry of Home Affairs was responsible for completing the project identification form necessary for the capital project.
In response, Commissioner Shilelo explained that Bukalo currently functions as a temporary police post under the Ngoma station. It was initially established to safeguard the Masubia Traditional Authority headquarters. Shilelo acknowledged that the border guard-trained officers lack sufficient manpower and vehicles, making them vulnerable. He however assured the CEO that budget discussions are ongoing and confirmed that Namibian Police Force Inspector General, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo, visited Bukalo in August.
He further said two additional tents, debushing, and fencing are planned for the immediate future, and urged the CEO to report concerns to the regional police headquarters. Shilelo however ruled out constructing an office and advised that a full police station must be pursued as a capital project for future central government funding through the village’s elected political heads.