Statistics provided by the Namibian Police show that 298 cars were stolen nationwide between 2024 and January 2025.
This is a slight decrease from the 379 vehicles stolen between 2023 and 2024.
The statistics were confirmed by police spokesman Kauna Shikwambi.
She noted that unlike other crimes, it has not been reported in most cases, including car theft.
This is because in most cases the vehicle was driven without the owner’s consent, some were stolen and used as a getaway vehicle, and later stripped of parts that were abandoned or stripped.
“But in fact, the vehicles are stolen from our yards, malls and places that are left abandoned in our public places,” Sikwambi said.
She revealed that most of the stolen vehicles were taken by car rental companies. “These vehicles are stolen by pretending to be the people they rent, but then they disappear with the vehicles, sometimes in neighbouring countries,” she said.
She added that in some cases individuals will sign contracts to rent a vehicle, but will end up selling the vehicle. Otherwise, the agent will give or sell to unsuspecting buyers a vehicle to take them for registration. “As a force, we strongly encourage vehicle owners and car rental companies to implement strict measures and verification methods when trading vehicle sales,” Sikwambi said. She also advised the vehicle owner and car rental company to immediately report that the vehicle was stolen and not returned on time or detected in a place where it was not.
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She also advised that buying vehicles from individuals be constantly reviewing documents and, if necessary, engaged in local athletic vehicle theft investigation units to check the vehicle’s condition.
“Whether your vehicle is stolen or not, check its status before you enter a transaction that can cause problems with the law,” she said. “Provide contact details to buyers and check as much as possible. I’ll accept only the original document and make a copy of my own records,” she said.
She also said, “Don’t allow buyers to take registration documents until the contract is signed. Insist that the route of the test drive is chosen by you and someone will follow you for additional security.”
To prevent theft of the vehicle, Shikwambi urged the public to lock the vehicle at all times, even inside the vehicle, even if the windows remain closed.
“Even if you think you’re not apart for a minute or two, don’t leave your vehicle unlocked, and don’t stop far away.
Shikwambi also warned of the dangers of carjackers who cause minor accidents to gain access to the vehicle. “If your car bumps from behind and you’re not used to the individual involved in the situation, you’ll drive to the nearest police station for help,” she advised.
She highlighted the importance of using basic security tools to prevent theft of a vehicle. “Get a gear lock. It’s an affordable tool and a very effective anti-theft device.” -mukubeiuze@gmail.com
