Commissioner Andreas Nelumbu has officially assumed the role of Kavango West Regional Commander during a hand-over and taking-over ceremony at Nkurenkuru.

Commissioner Nelumbu replaces Commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo.

Commissioner Nelumbu joined the Namibian Police Force in 1995.

In March 2025 he was appointed as Presidential Chief of Security, and in May 2026 he was appointed and transferred as Regional Commander of the Kavango West region.

Commissioner Nelumbu vowed to work closely with local stakeholders to combat crime and boost community safety.

“And I will also engage my colleagues from the neighbouring regions. Equally, we will also see how best we will remain our counterparts to manage and to ensure that we eradicate the issues of cross-contact management. Having said that, I have accepted the responsibility entrusted to me by the management of the Namibian Police Force, and I'm looking forward to working with you for the betterment of our country, for the betterment of our people in this region, and let's make our region very safe.”

Officiating the transition was Deputy Inspector-General for Operations, Major-General Elias Mutota.

“As you assume command today, you inherit not only the authority vested in this office but also the responsibility of safeguarding the lives and property of the people entrusted under your command. By this transition I strengthen the region's policing effort and further enhance our shared mission of ensuring peace, safety, security, and justice for all who live in and with the Republic of Namibia.”

Commissioner Julia Sakuwa-Neo, who now heads the Zambezi, highlighted the reduction of violent crimes and major contraband seizures during her tenure.

"We have made remarkable strides in reducing violent crimes such as rape and robbery. We recovered numerous stolen items, including cell phones, televisions, and other valuables. We also confiscated illegally harvested timber, drugs, elephant tusks, rhino horns, and other illicit products. In addition, we intercepted stolen cattle, dogs, and donkeys. We successfully reduced stock theft along the Namibia–Angola border and disrupted several criminal syndicates. Thank you for your sacrifice and dedication to duty. Continue to uphold the oath we swore to protect and serve. Finally, I would like to thank all the members with whom I had the privilege of working."

The event was attended by senior police officers, regional leaders, and members of the community.