Police officers in Namibia have been warned against neglecting their duties to protect citizens after joining some churches.

Addressing police officers in Ohangwena region, Lieutenant General Sebastian Ndeitunga said some officers are “missing shifts” and “misusing their salaries because of those churches”.

Maintaining that he had no issue with officers enjoying their religious freedom, he however stated that they have to choose whether they want to remain police officers “or become pastors”.

Ndeitunga said;

“Dockets are missing, no instructions, vehicles are dirty, vehicles are driven all over – no control – while commanders become bishops and pastors”

The police chief also ordered investigations to identify officers absconding from work