Maria David
AS the holiday season approaches, children are being targeted, exploited for illegal purposes, sexually assaulted, or otherwise harmed. Consequently, the Namibian Police Force is urging parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s safety throughout this season.
In a statement issued by NamPol’s Head of Media Public Relations Division, Kauna Shikwambi, it was indicated that recently, there has been an alarming increase in crimes where children are being harmed, abused, raped, neglected, and have become victims of crimes committed by those who are supposed to create safer and conducive environments for them.
According to Shikwambi, children are also taking their own lives, while some are dying in road accidents, water-related incidents, and fires.
“On the other hand, young boys have resorted to criminal activities, being exposed to theft, knife stabbings, as well as illicit drug and alcohol use, while in some cases they are becoming involved in drug crimes,” she said.
She added that it is against this backdrop that they urge parents and guardians to ensure their children’s safety and intensify parental guidance and support as we prepare for the imminent school holidays and festive season period.
Shikwambi called on parents and guardians to first teach children about personal boundaries, how to say ‘no,’ and how to recognize emergency situations and what to do in case of emergencies.
Furthermore, she emphasized the need to educate children about the dangers of using drugs and alcohol and to teach them to never attempt nor accept the delivery of parcels in the streets or neighbourhoods.
Moreover, Shikwambi stressed the importance of teaching children to avoid interacting with strangers at all times and to report any suspicious or inappropriate activity.
She also added that children need to be educated about the importance of water safety, avoiding unsupervised access to pools, oceans, rivers, or other bodies of water.
Parents should also teach children about fire safety measures, emphasizing that they should never play with matches or lighters and should discourage others from throwing cigarette butts anywhere, as it can ignite grass and cause damage.
“We must remember that open communication and building a trusting relationship with children are crucial for their safety. Children are vulnerable and often unable to defend themselves; therefore, it is crucial that we ensure their safety for their physical and emotional well-being,” she added.
Shikwambi emphasized that early intervention in protecting children from criminal and untoward activities can help prevent them from becoming involved in criminal behaviour as they grow older.
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