Police forces from Rwanda and Uganda have committed to reigniting the existing bilateral initiatives to combat cross-border crimes, including deportation or extradition of fugitives in either country.

The two forces reaffirmed their commitment, yesterday, during a meeting at the Rwanda National Police (RNP) headquarters in Kacyiru, Kigali.

The meeting aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two forces, review the implementation of the previous resolutions and lay further strategies against cross-border security challenges affecting the two countries.

The sixth meeting between the two forces, since 2012, was co-chaired by the Inspector General of Police RNP, Emmanuel K. Gasana, and Uganda’s Deputy IGP Okoth Ochola, and attended by heads of various departments including CID, Intelligence, Interpol and Traffic, among others, from the two states.

"This is another step towards sustainable peace and security of our people and the Northern Corridor; crimes continue to emerge and we can’t remain in routine,” IGP Gasana said.

"We need to harmonise training programmes, share what we believe will create a conducive environment for our people, be smarter and operate ahead of criminals,” he added.

Resolutions

The two delegations, which appreciated the existing efforts in apprehending and extraditing fugitives, agreed to enhance exchange of information on criminal syndicates involved in the illicit production and trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

The issue of extending the Interpol communication tool – I-24/4 – to common border was also tackled and agreed upon to track criminals who commit offences and flee to the either country.

Uganda’s deputy IGP Ochola commended the achievements by the two countries pending issues needed to be tackled to keep criminals in the check.

"We need to pursue collective skills development, share best practices and information. I am convinced we are on the right track,” he said.

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