Luanda: The Angolan National Police has reported a total of 24,000 crimes across the nation from January to May this year, marking a decrease of 2,371 occurrences compared to the same period in 2024, as stated by the Minister of the Interior, Manuel Homem. The announcement was made during the opening of the Ordinary Meeting of the Consultative Council of the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), which is set to continue until Friday. The meeting is held under the motto: "With an eye on Patriotic and Professional Strengthening, Let us Value the Achievements Achieved, towards the Improvement of Public Order and Security."
According to Angola Press News Agency, despite the overall reduction in crime, Minister Manuel Homem highlighted an increase in specific offenses such as the vandalization of public property, illegal mining of strategic minerals, and fuel smuggling. The minister acknowledged the prompt action of authorities in resolving cases and apprehending those responsible.
The minister expressed optimism that the meeting would result in guidelines to enhance the Ministry's performance, significantly contributing to achieving institutional and national objectives in public security. He emphasized the necessity of continuous training for security forces, focusing on modern technology use and improving operational tactics in risk situations.
In this context, Manuel Homem advocated for enhanced training in conflict mediation techniques and increased awareness campaigns directed at the population to promote reporting illegal activities, respecting laws, and fostering civic behavior. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the population and the Ministry of the Interior to promote legality and civility.
Manuel Homem also underscored the significance of supporting crime victims, suggesting the creation and strengthening of reception rooms to provide psychological and social assistance. Furthermore, he noted the need to re-equip and enhance the operational capacity of the National Police, reform the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC), and modernize and digitalize the Migration and Foreigners Service (SME), aiming to offer services closer to citizens.
The consultative meeting gathers senior officials from the Ministry of the Interior and its operational bodies, aiming to assess the sector's performance and devise new strategies for strengthening public order and security in Angola.