PUYEIPAWA NAKASHOLE and MERCY KARUUOMBEDEPUTY inspector general Joseph Shikongo of the Namibian Police yesterday thanked all Namibians who contributed to the reduced accident rate recorded during 2021’s festive season.
According to him, last year saw 12% fewer road accidents than 2020 and 2019.
Despite 13% fewer injuries reported in 2021, 6% more road accident deaths were recorded.
Shikongo attributed the reduced accident rate to robust police deployment in all 14 regions.
He said commanders were directed to set up permanent and temporary roadblocks in the regions.
Road users should, however, always expect the presence of law enforcement, which will make sure law violators are dealt with.
“We have not only fined people, but also educated them on the ethics of using public roads,” Shikongo said.
He said the public’s road use during the festive season was commendable.
National police spokesperson deputy commissioner Kauna Shikwambi in a statement said the police issued 3 277 summonses to the value of N$3 372 175 during the festive season.
According to the statement, 485 road accidents were reported in 2019, and 411 in 2020, while 371 were reported in 2021.
“The Namibian Police’s traffic law-enforcement division since the inception of the festive season on 17 November to 26 November 2021 has suspended 197 unroadworthy vehicles, and 162 courtesy notifications were issued,” the statement read.
Shikwambi said a total of 29 744 drivers were screened for alcohol, of which 75 were detained for driving under the influence.
She said prevailing violations, such as drunken driving, drivers and vehicles being unlicensed, speeding, inconsiderate driving, and the failure to comply with road traffic signs and the wearing of seatbelts were reported.
She said there were 8% fewer accidents involving cyclists during this past festive season.
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