Africa-Press – Namibia. MOST cases related to assault and gender-based violence (GBV), are due to alcohol abuse and happen around liquor outlets and events where alcohol is served.
Erongo’s acting regional commander deputy commissioner Tobie Gerber said this during the region’s crime statistics update recently.
For the period between 1 and 27 December, the region recorded 22 common assault and nine rape cases.
Most of the cases were reported in Tutaleni and Kuisebmond at Walvis Bay, as well a Mondesa at Swakopmund.
“Contributing factors are irresponsible drinking behaviour of victims, especially rape.”
Assaults were mostly alcohol related, which leads to more cases being withdrawn,” he said.
The police are concerned about the increase in rape cases, especially when they are targeted during or after parties, at public places or private events.
“Alcohol should be consumed responsibly, we should always know who we associate with, everyone should plan and know before going out, how and with whom they are going home,” he said.
Gerber added that theft and robbery in the early hours of the morning in Kuisebmond and Mondesa remain a concerning crime.
He said most often victims are alone when returning from entertainment places, which makes them easy targets for the offenders who are mostly moving in groups four to five.
“Club and bar owners can play a big part in crime prevention if they follow the law by not selling alcohol to a person who is visibly under the influence. If they can have security who ensure control at the entrance and ensure no alcohol is consumed outside, as well as identify troublemakers and victims.”
Gerber also proposed that owners of entertainment places to assist clients requiring transport home.
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