An evaluation of closed-circuit television surveillance as a crime prevention measure in Windhoek, Namibia

Abstract

The aim of this research study was to evaluate the effectiveness of CCTV surveillance system and measure the benefits it provides to residents of Windhoek. CCTV is a security control measure which is used by law enforcement bodies to detect and reduce crime. Although crime such as theft out of motor vehicles, ATM fraud, cellphone/bag snatching and robbery were reported to have been reduced in some parts of Windhoek after the system was installed, public perceptions towards the system remained worrisome. The study followed a qualitative method in collecting and analyzing data from various sources. Due to limited coverage of CCTV cameras in Windhoek, the researcher chose a non-probability sampling, targeting residents that are familiar with the system. The researcher assessed strategies and approaches applied by the police and private security companies when making use of CCTV to combating crime.