The Namibian Police Force (NamPol) has joined hands with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) to launch Operation Acacia, which will run from Wednesday to Monday in the Oshikoto Region.

The aim of the operation is to protect wildlife and preserve natural resources in the region.

Oshikoto regional police head of crime prevention, Deputy Commissioner Wynand Neels said the region is believed to have individual residents who are foes to nature.

Neels said during the official briefing and launch of the joint operation by NamPol and MEFT at Oshivelo on Wednesday that citizens within the region have formed groups.

‘They commit wildlife crimes such as illegal hunting to either generate income or for own consumption,’ said Neels.

He said these illegal activities take place on some farms and areas in the Mangetti communal farming area.

‘We have to enforce any law in the land along with the ministry to ensure that the Nature Conservation Act is not violated and the regulation thereof is adhered
to by all,’ said Neels.

Neels further said they will ensure that appropriate precautions are employed to guarantee the safety of wildlife and prevent illegal hunting and all wildlife-related crimes in the region.

‘We will conduct awareness campaigns on the importance of our natural resources and the preservation thereof,’ said Neels.

MEFT Deputy Director in the Department of Wildlife and National Park, Erckie Rehabeam, said they are committed to stopping wildlife crimes.

‘We are going to unite and embark upon this operation and root out criminals,’ he said.

He urged all the stakeholders to be committed and ensure that they do what is expected of them.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency