A surge in violent crimes has caused fear among the residents of Gobabis in the Omaheke Region after several murder cases were recorded in recent weeks.

From the beginning of January until the first week of February 2026, the region recorded four murder cases. 

According to Chief Inspector Fina Sakajengenga from the Omaheke Community Policing Unit, these cases are very serious. 

"The community is affected because these incidents create fear among the residents of Gobabis, and they also raise significant concerns for the police regarding the safety of the community."

Chief Inspector Fina Sakajengenga from the Omaheke Community Policing Unit noted it is worrying, as most of the incidents happen within homes and involve people known to each other.

"It has been observed that these met cases are linked to or are caused by domestic disputes, drug and alcohol abuse, and unsolved conflicts among family members. So these cases are really serious."

She added that measures have been put in place to curb the recent wave of violent crime and restore a sense of safety among the residents.

"The Regional Commander has directed an operation where we will be conducting random stop and search patrols within the community of Gobabis to ensure police visibility; police officers may have to be everywhere so that when crimes are committed, they respond. Should the community want to report any suspicion of crime, police officers are nearby. This stop-and-search operation is also intended to confiscate dangerous weapons that are used in committing crimes such as murder and assault.

The police are calling on residents to play an active role in keeping their neighbourhoods safe and work with the police to combat crime.