Police have foiled a criminal ring involving five men who are suspected of involvement in car theft incidents in the country.

The suspects – identified as Rashid Mugisha, Alfred Niyonsenga, Patrick Sayinzonga, Christian Amani and Athanase Niyibigira are currently held at Remera Police Station as further investigations continue.

They were all nabbed in different places, last week, after their alleged attempt to steal and sell a Toyota Rav4 which they had found parked at Kisementi, Remera.

Speaking to the media on Monday, the Police Spokesperson for Central Region, Superintendent Modeste Mbabazi, said that the suspected criminal ring was cracked after intense investigations, which were aided by residents who provided credible information.

"The suspects involve thieves, middlemen who look for potential buyers and those who knowingly buy stolen cars,” he said.

"The owner of a Toyota Rav4 reported to Police that his car had been stolen, and this gave way to a series of investigations that led us to a potential buyer. After apprehending the potential buyer, he led us to the car thieves and we arrested them too.”

"During the course of investigations, many residents came forward with information about suspects’ names and names of those who look for buyers of stolen cars. We are hopeful that with more cooperation with the public, Police will continue to do its job to protect lives and property.”

The owner of the Toyota Rav4, who spoke on condition of anonymity, thanked Police for its professional and efficient investigations which enabled him to get back his car.

"I bought this car at Rwf5 million and I am so grateful that I have recovered it in good condition.

It was a shock to find an empty space where I had parked it. I thought I would never get it again, but I have it now. I am very grateful,” he said.

Police said most cars stolen in Kigali and around the country are mainly destroyed by the thieves who seek to sell spare parts to garages. In other instances, the vehicle’s appearance and plate number is changed and sold.

Earlier this month, a Police crackdown led to the arrest of 12 people suspected of belonging to a group that vandalises and steals car parts and other electronics in Kigali.

Police are also vigilant at preventing the smuggling of vehicles and have installed an Interpol tool, known as I-24/7, at every border post to detect movement of smuggled cars and other items, the force says.

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