Poor record-keeping fuels theft - police

The Namibian Police are intensifying efforts to combat the illegal trade of stolen goods, issuing a firm warning to second-hand dealers to improve their record-keeping practices.

This follows growing concerns that many businesses dealing in used items are failing to keep proper records, hampering law enforcement's ability to trace stolen property.

Speaking at a workshop for second-hand dealers in Rundu on Tuesday, Sergeant Eveline Matjai of the Namibian Police's second-hand goods unit emphasised the importance of accurate transaction logs. "It is essential to keep a record of every item you are buying or selling. This helps us trace goods when theft is reported, even if the case is reported late and the item has already been sold," she said.

Matjai pointed out that police officers can enter any premises where second-hand goods are sold, inspect items and review business records. She further warned that non-compliance could result in severe penalties.

“[When purchasing items], we need the name of the seller, their ID number, address and contact details - for every item. The same information must be recorded when selling items. This process allows us to track high-value goods like vehicles and cell phones, which are often targeted by thieves,” she said.

One of the major challenges is the use of cash payments, which makes it difficult for police to trace buyers. “We strongly recommend businesses to use card machines or accept online payments, which make it easier to trace transactions and identify the buyer.”

Collaborative effort

Matjai urged all second-hand goods dealers to adhere to these guidelines to help curb the rising cases of theft.

"This is a collaborative effort. By recording the details of every transaction, dealers can help protect themselves and assist the police in fighting crime," she added.

She further noted that many second-hand goods dealers, pawnbrokers and scrap metal traders are not complying with the Second-Hand Goods Act, which requires them to register the particulars of items sold to them.

"[These businesses] are selling items stolen from the community. People are buying these stolen goods without verifying their origin," she said.

At the same occasion, Matjai announced that members of her unit will be deployed for a community awareness campaign to educate the public on regulations and offences related to second-hand goods.

"We will inspect acquisition and disposal registers, issue warnings and open cases against non-compliant dealers," she warned.

Ignorance no excuse

Kavango East acting regional commander, Deputy Commissioner Mulao Sonicah Matongo, stressed that ignorance of the law is no excuse.

"It is a foundation upon which we build integrity and accepted societal values. The public expects the police force to operate within the framework of the law. It is the mandate of police officers to ensure that the public adheres to these existing laws. Failing to act decisively and fairly not only undermines the morale of the force, but also erodes the trust of the communities we serve,” she said.

"This is why we must have systems in place to address violations of the existing laws. This meeting will empower you with knowledge to comply with the existing laws. As an organisation, we cannot be expected to enforce law and order in society if we do not maintain law and order in society.”

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