NamRA launches new K9 Unit - nbc

The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) has launched its K9 Unit, consisting of 10 dog handlers and four K9s.

This follows six months of extensive training that cost the agency N$2.5 million with support from the Ministry of Finance.

The unit will serve at the Hosea Kutako International Airport as well as various border posts nationwide to detect illegal substances moving into and out of the country.

The 10 dog handlers have successfully undergone their training at the Tactical Support Unit Protection Services.

The Head of Customs and Excise at NamRA, Wilbroad Poniso, says the team is operationally fit and has demonstrated exceptional skills.

"In addition to the K9 training, the handlers completed a broader capacity programme linked to this initiative. Two of these officers will be posted to the Transcalari border post to support customs operations, while the remaining eight will serve as dog handlers during the initial phase of implementation."

NamRA's Commissioner, Sam Shivute, says that drug smuggling has become a major concern in the country, posing a threat to the safety and health of citizens.

He says that over the past year, the agency detected over 20 cases of drug smuggling with an estimated value of about N$51 million.

Shivute emphasised the need to improve capacity in border security.

"The Namibians out there, the drugs that are being smuggled into this country on a weekly, on a daily basis – that is done by people that live with us. Our brothers, our sisters, our cousins and people that live with us. Those who have vehicles that go to South Africa and other jurisdictions and come here. Talk to your drivers and those who are driving your vehicles and warn them on a serious note, because what is happening is not acceptable. What is happening is that we are breaking houses."

Shivute further stated that they had initially intended to employ only six of the 10 trainees; however, due to the high unemployment rate in the country, especially among the youth, they deemed it necessary to employ all 10 handlers.