WINDHOEK - Two hundred and seventy cadet police constables commenced a six-month basic police training course at Gobabis in the Omaheke Region over the weekend.

The training at Gobabis is running concurrently with a twin training programme at the Ondangwa Training Centre, which accommodates some 866 cadets, bringing the number of trainees to over 1000.

The recruitment and training is expected to alleviate the persistent manpower shortfall in the Namibian Police, and fill the gap left by the recent sacking of 163 police officers within a period of six months.

Speaking at the official opening, Safety and Security Minister Nangolo Mbumba acknowledged that the Namibian Police Force has for years been confronted by many challenges, among them the lack of manpower.

He called on the would-be police officers to develop an in-depth understanding that they are dealing with elements in the society who at times may pose a serious danger to the lives of people, including the police officers themselves.

“You will be required to handle those situations professionally, taking into account the safety of innocent people while also protecting the rights of the offenders,” Mbumba cautioned the new recruits.

He said the police basic training course offers an ideal platform where such an understanding and the requisite knowledge can be inculcated in all aspirant police officers.

“For this reason, well-planned training programmes are designed to create understanding and impart deep rooted professional approaches and conduct for all law enforcement officers, especially at the beginning of their career,” he said.

In his welcoming remarks, Pio Nganate, the Special Advisor to Omaheke Governor, Laura Mcleod-Katjirua encouraged the cadets to ensure a crime-free environment for the sake of the safety of all citizens once they become full police officers.

“I am confident that the knowledge and skills you will acquire during your training sessions will enable you to discharge your duties in an impartial manner without fear or favour,” he said.