Police in Rutsiro District are holding a man accused of assaulting and seriously injuring his wife.

The suspect, a resident of Musasa Sector, was reported by concerned residents to Police.

He is currently being held at Kayove Police Station for further investigations, while his wife was admitted to Musasa Hospital.

"This was a case of drunkenness that forced the man to assault his wife. By fighting making, selling and consumption of illicit brew, we will be preventing gender-based violence and the public's role is vital in this case,” Superintendent Emmanuel Hitayezu, Police spokesperson for Western region, said.

"The crime of gender-based violence cannot be tolerated and Police will continue to carry out operations and sensitise residents on how to solve conflicts peacefully without resorting to violence.”

Gender-based violence crimes, which are usually fueled by drunkenness and drug abuse, range from assault, rape, manipulation and similar acts which breach the fundamental right to life, liberty, security, dignity, equality, non-discrimination and physical and mental integrity.

Rwanda has seen a significant drop of gender-based violence cases over the years; however, the crime remains one of the most prevalent in society.

Police have promoted community policing, through which the public voluntarily shares information with officers, which helps to prevent GBV, arrest culprits or identify victims in need of help.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw