Andreas Shilelo, Oshana police regional commander, has called on officers to ensure lawful and non-violent arrests, using force only when absolutely necessary. He made these remarks at the official opening of a five-day human rights training for police officers at Ondangwa on Monday. The training aims to equip officers with practical skills on human rights principles and ethical decision-making.
The human rights training course, attended by 50 police officers from all 14 regions, focuses on the constitutional framework for human rights, administrative justice, and the prohibition of torture and cruel treatment. The course is facilitated by the Office of the Ombudsman in partnership with the Office of the Prosecutor General. Shilelo emphasized that human rights and effective policing are not opposing principles but form the foundation of professional and ethical policing.
Shilelo urged police officers to prioritize human rights in their daily duties and respect the rights of the communities they serve. He stated that upholding human rights builds community trust, strengthens public cooperation, and ensures that justice is not only done but seen to be done. The training is expected to renew officers' commitment to serving with honour, integrity, and dignity.
The training course covers various topics, including the use of force, accountability in policing, gender-based violence, vulnerable people, non-discrimination, and community policing. Shilelo emphasized that conditions of detention should respect basic human dignity, and freedom of expression, assembly, and dignity must be protected.
The Namibian police are taking steps to maintain public trust and credibility by prioritizing human rights. Shilelo's remarks highlight the importance of balancing law enforcement with respect for human rights. The training course is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
The partnership between the Office of the Ombudsman and the Office of the Prosecutor General facilitates the training, demonstrating a collaborative effort to promote human rights in policing. The training will enable officers to manage the complexities of their duties while upholding human rights principles.
Ultimately, the training aims to equip police officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect the rights of all Namibians, regardless of their circumstances. By prioritizing human rights, the Namibian police can build trust with the communities they serve and ensure that justice is served.
Key points
- Namibian police officers undergo human rights training to learn about non-violent arrests and respect for human rights.
- The training course covers topics such as the use of force, accountability in policing, and community policing.
- The Namibian police aim to maintain public trust and credibility by prioritizing human rights in their daily duties.
