Hardap regional commander commissioner Sydney Philander says Rehoboth has recorded a recent decrease in drinking and driving arrests.
In addition, the crime rate between January 2023 to November 2024 also decreased by 21%, he says.
Philander notes that of the 36 people arrested during the September police operation, 25 were for drinking and driving, while 12 people were arrested during the last operation.
Philander believes Rehoboth’s crime rate has reduced due to the various crime operations held at the town.
“We had a couple of operations, which I believe was felt by the community of Rehoboth. We had operations shortly after each other, and as part of those operations, we saw a huge success,” he says.
Philander further credits the success to the assistance of stakeholders and the Rehoboth Town Council.
“I would like to thank the Rehoboth Town Council for their commitment and dedication to assist the Rehoboth police. I would also like to thank the Rehoboth Community Crime Prevention and other crime prevention watches. It is high time for Rehoboth to hear some good news,” Philander notes.
Philander says despite residents believing the police just want to arrest them, this is not the case.
He emphasises that police officers are merely doing their jobs and trying to help make the town a better place.
“We are not here to lock people up, but to help prevent crimes. If you are caught for not following the law, then we will have you arrested. We are trying to ensure a safe and better community.
“If you have been arrested for drinking and driving, then you must be thankful to the police because it means that your life has been saved,” Philander adds.
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