Environment minister Pohamba Shifeta has confirmed that a large tree that was felled last year in Helao Nafidi in the Ohangwena Region was used by criminals to conduct illegal activities. However, he emphasised that harming natural resources should always be a last resort. He urged law enforcement agencies to explore alternative methods of managing crime, rather than resorting to environmental damage. "At this stage the ministry is still investigating if this was part of the preventative measure or if it was simply an oversight on the part of the town council. Our message to all stakeholders is to protect our trees, and where trees have been cut down for one or other reasons, plant more trees instead." Shifeta was speaking in response to questions raised in parliament regarding the removal of the tree last year. “I implore all stakeholders to always check with the ministry before any action is taken that could result in environmental damage. Taking care of the environment is each and every Namibian's responsibility and we are all expected to do just that," he said, adding that "trees play an important role in the environment and should be protected at all costs." The minister added that the ministry was not approached to have any trees removed by the council or law enforcement. "While we support law enforcement, we urge all stakeholders to ensure the environment is safeguarded at all costs."