馃嚦馃嚘NamibiaSouthern Africa
Namibia's Police Tourism Protective Subdivision reports significant reduction in tourist-targeted crime
via The Namibian2 min read
Namibia's Police Tourism Protective Subdivision has achieved a reduction in criminal cases against tourists since February 2026, according to chief inspector Christina DaFonsech-Shikongo, head of the unit. The unit engages daily with approximately 1,035 tourists arriving from 14 international flights at Hosea Kutako International Airport, providing crime prevention tips and contact details for regional commanders. While 376 outstanding cases were carried over to the unit in February, only 57 new cases involving 20 suspects were reported by June of this year. Of these, 36 cases have been finalized, resulting in convictions and jail sentences. Robbery, previously the most common crime, has been surpassed by theft from motor vehicles, particularly at bed-and-breakfast facilities with insufficient security. Since February, the unit has recovered 37 cellphones, four laptops, one iPad, and a Gucci handbag, all stolen from tourists, and returned them to their owners. DaFonsech-Shikongo advises tourists against advance bookings and payments with unregistered car hire companies or using credit cards for services unless dealing with genuine providers. Challenges faced by the unit include language barriers with some tourists and difficulties investigating crimes by unregistered tour guides due to a lack of reliable records.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
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