The Minister for Internal Security, Sheikh Mussa Fazil Harerimana, has urged private security companies operating in Rwanda to uphold professionalism if they are to win public trust.

The minister made the remarks yesterday as he officiated at the opening of a three-day training of representatives of 10 security companies at the National Police College in Musanze District.

Harerimana told participants that their role in maintaining the country’s security is crucial.

"The Police have all channels for collaboration and you should ensure that you communicate and partner with it through the provision of timely information, and participating in nationwide campaigns against crime,” he said.

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Emmanuel K. Gasana, took the participants through a course tutorial on the requirement of security operations and advised them to equip their staff with knowledge about modern challenges to security, which call for a holistic and collaborative effort in order to tackle them.

"Addressing modern security threats requires a holistic approach between security forces and other players like private security firms and members of the community. You all need to be aware of the rapidly changing environment in the security regime and pursue a collective strategy to overcome the threats to security,” he said.

"The qualities of a good security firm include; having guards, who are knowledgeable, physically fit, have value for human life, understanding rights and responsibilities who respect their duties and also have the ability to lead and follow.”

The general manager of Topsec Security, Robert Kashemeza, who also doubles as Chairperson of Rwanda Private Security Companies Association, said the training culminated from a recent meeting between security companies and IGP Gasana, who promised Police’s support towards the professionalisation of their operations.

"This training is fruitful to our operations and helps us to have the same goal and vision with law enforcers as we conduct our daily work. Although we are business-oriented as private firms, we understand that security of people and property comes first – and that is why we must invest heavily in training and partner with police at every given opportunity,” he said.

The training is being held under the theme, "Synergy to Enhance Professionalism in Private Security Service Providers through Collaboration with RNP.”