Photo: Acting Inspector General, Major General Anne-Marie Nainda (photo contributed)

Following recent public discussion and media reports regarding the provision of meals to trial awaiting inmates in police custody, especially on days when they (inmates) are supposed to appear in court, the Acting Inspector General of the Namibian Police Force (NAMPOL) Major General Anne-Marie Nainda issued a statement wherewith she assures that trial awaiting inmates are provided with three meals daily while in police custody.

Nainda however noted that “there may be, occasionally, operational challenges affecting the timing of meals, particularly where accused persons are transported over long distances or spend extended periods attending court or delays in food preparation, or at times the delivery of supplies.” She gave assurance that in such instances station commanders make reasonable arrangements to assure that persons in police custody receive their prescribed meals.  

The acting Inspector General further noted that relatives of trial awaiting inmates are also permitted to bring food to their family members in police custody, subjected to the necessary security screening and searching procedures to prevent the smuggling of prohibited items into police holding cells.  She encouraged members of the public to report those instances that are allegedly not met, should they learn about concerns during their visits to the various police stations. “Such reports will be investigated promptly, and appropriate corrective measures will be taken where necessary.

Nampol welcomes public interest in the welfare of the inmates and recognises the importance of insuring that operational arrangements adequately safeguard the welfare and dignity of all persons in custody, including during court appearances,” Nainda said.   

By Marshallino Beukes