Oshakati: The Oshana Region recorded a 12 per cent reduction in overall crime, with 12,484 cases reported for the 2024/25 financial year. Oshana Governor, Hofni Iipinge, revealed this during his first State of the Region Address (SORA) at Oshakati on Friday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the region saw a significant decrease in serious crimes, with rape and domestic violence cases declining by 7.1 per cent. Iipinge stated that for the year under review, 39 rape cases and 130 domestic violence cases were reported. He raised concerns about the delayed reporting of gender-based violence and domestic violence incidents, noting that these cases are often handled informally within families rather than through legal channels.

Iipinge called on residents to prioritize the safety and rights of victims by reporting such cases promptly. He expressed gratitude for the peace and stability that have prevailed in the region since Namibia's independence in 1990, stating that this has provided fertile ground for democratic participation, social development, and economic growth.

He praised the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) and the broader security apparatus for their proactive awareness campaigns and community policing initiatives. He mentioned that the Oshana Regional Security Cluster, coordinated by NamPol, has continued to maintain law and order with commendable dedication. Iipinge urged residents to strengthen their cooperation with NamPol and the Anti-Corruption Commission in the shared battle against crime, corruption, and gender-based violence.