The Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, has urged senior officials within the police force to ensure fairness regarding promotions.

Iipumbu emphasised that decisions must be guided by members' commitment, years of service, and professional conduct.

Iipumbu was speaking at the launch of Operation Lucia at Oshakati, which saw police, reservists, the Men and Women Network, the Neighbourhood Watch, and civilians participating in the operation.

"If you have your promotion given to you, which I believe is a promotion that was fair and that you deserve and was given on the radar, do not go and promote the one that you like or your family members. Let each promotion be informed by the commitment, long service, correct attitudes, and many, many more requirements, as we have them listed that would earn you recognition."

Iipumbu cautioned police officers to not be quick to arrest, citing that police holding cells across the country are crowded.

Instead, she encouraged prevention, mediation, and redirection where possible.

The minister further called on all officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, discipline, and values, saying these are non-negotiable.

She also urged the revival and support of the Neighbourhood Watch initiatives, highlighting community-based policing as an effective tool in preventing crime.

Iipumbu commended police reservists and the men and women network for their selfless service and valuable contribution to national safety efforts.