Mubita calls for increased border security amid stock theft

KATIMA MULILO, 21 MAR (NAMPA) – Deputy Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Charles Mubita, has called on national security services to intensify operations along the Zambian border following a rise in stock theft and cross-border crime.
Speaking at the Zambezi regional independence celebrations at Bukalo on Saturday, Mubita stated that while independence represents a milestone for peace and dignity, many residents in the Katima Mulilo Rural Constituency have faced persistent security threats over the past several months.
“I’m saddened to say our people alongside our border with Zambia, especially around Singalamwe, Kongola and other areas have not seen peace for the last few months because their safety is threatened by those who steal their cattle,” he said.
He noted that these incidents often involve the use of firearms, resulting in injuries to residents. Recent police reports confirm an escalation in theft, including an incident in the Sibbinda constituency where a communal farmer lost over 60 head of cattle with an estimated market value of N.dollars 567 000.
Despite a joint bilateral operation between Namibian and Zambian police, recovery efforts and prevention have yielded limited results. This has prompted local farmers' associations to request the immediate deployment of the Namibian Defence Force at strategic border crossing points.
The deputy minister emphasised that it is the fundamental duty of every security officer to ensure that Namibians live in peace and stability. Mubita urged both the police and the army to remain vigilant and ensure the protection of private property at all times.
Turning to national development, the deputy minister described the current era as the “second phase of the struggle,” focused on achieving economic independence. He argued that political sovereignty is insufficient without food security and economic stability. Mubita concluded by calling on the youth to lead this economic transition through innovation and discipline, drawing parallels to the previous generation of youth who took up the mantle during the liberation struggle.
(NAMPA)
MML/AS/EK