An investigation into the factors contributing to the increase of firearms crimes in Windhoek, Namibia, 2015 – 2019.

A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science (Security and Strategic studies)

This study focused on factors contributing to the increase in firearms crimes in Windhoek in Namibia. The research objectives for this study were as follows; to examine the factors contributing to the intensification of firearm crimes in Windhoek, Namibia; to analyse the impact of the firearm crimes in Windhoek of Namibia, and to find ways in which firearm crimes in Windhoek can be mitigated. The research found that domestic disputes, abuse of alcohol, lack of counselling of people in dispute, and exposure of people, especially children, to violent situations are contributing to the scourge of violence in Windhoek. It was also found that the high rate of unemployment and subsequent rising poverty levels in Windhoek are among the generating and contributing factors to firearm increase crimes in Windhoek. The study also found that firearm crimes have a negative impact on socioeconomic dynamics in Windhoek. Individuals, families, and communities are feeling these impacts. This is so because some businesses are being forced to cut down on their operating hours due to the fear of being robbed. Similarly, firearm crimes targeting businesspersons are also impacting economic activities because most businesses have reduced their operating hours due to fear of being the next victim. This research has unearthed mitigating measures by increasing the number of police officers who conduct night-time patrols and enhancing police visibility in the City. In addition, the researchers concluded that firearm crimes could be mitigated by training police officers on how to identify and counsel people who are at risk of committing these types of heinous crimes. It is also revealed that the intensification of firearm crimes in Windhoek can be mitigated through strict firearm regulations by the government. Hence, the adoption of comprehensive firearm legislation could go a long way in this regard. This firearm legislation could be in the form of firearm license renewals, repossession of firearms from all firearm crime offenders, firearm crime risky individuals, and providing firearm amnesty to those in possession of illegal firearms.