The police in the Omaheke Region are partnering with church leaders around Gobabis to combat crime.

Chief Inspector Fina Sakajengenga, in an interview with NBC News, said churches have a major impact on creating communities, and it is important that they join in fighting social ills in society. 

The intention is to form a forum to work on various strategies to combat criminal activities. 

"The purpose of the meeting was to establish a partnership with churches in the Epako suburb. If we look at the world today, it is very imperative for the community and police to work together, so one of our key stakeholders in a town like Gobabis is the churches. That's why we reach out to the churches; we invite all the churches to have a meeting with us and to establish that relationship with them to combat crime and to fight against social ills that are affecting the communities."

Pastor Bennie Anton, speaking on behalf of church leaders, emphasised the importance of churches and civil organisations collaborating with the police to curb illegal activities.

He pointed out that raising awareness about alcohol and drug abuse among young people should be a priority. 

"So the church must play its role because we are the eyes and the ears of the community and of the police, so I think the church will pull up their socks, they will do what is required from them, and we will work with the police and bring a change in Omaheke as well as in Gobabis."