Investigating the enhancement of traffic offence records management through digitisation in the Namibian police in the Omusati region

Abstract

This study, titled “Investigating the enhancement of traffic offence records management through digitisation in the Namibian police in the Omusati region,” investigated how the management of traffic offence records can be enhanced through a case study of Namibia Police Omusati. The study was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study adopted a multiple case study research design within a qualitative research approach and was informed by the interpretive research paradigm. The population for this study was 65 police officers and the sample was made up of 15 Namibian Police officers, all serving under the Omusati Region, who were purposively selected because of their experience in crime records management in the region and therefore, they were rich sources of data. In addition, the fact that they manage crime records daily, they were aware of any challenges encountered in the management of these records. The data collection instrument used was a semi-structured interview guide. Data was analysed applying the thematic qualitative data analysis sampling technique. The findings indicate that the police officers used manual records. The records were created at the scene and stored in cabinet lockers. The police officers pointed out the manual records save electricity costs. However, spacing requirements, theft and loss of records were risks associated with manual records by the officers. The police officers expressed positivity towards the adoption of digitised crime records. The researcher recommends that the police avail funding and training for digitisation to kick off.