The Muslim community in the country has been urged to be vigilant and strengthen partnership with law enforcers and other Rwandans in the fight against human trafficking.

While speaking to about 120 members of the Muslim community, majority of them youth drawn from Eastern Province, on Monday in Rwamagana District, AIP Goreth Uwimana, the District Community Liaison Officer of Rwamagana, called on every Rwandan and all religious denominations to play a role in fighting human trafficking and other crimes.

"We are in the era of proactive policing where safety and security is everyone’s responsibility. So, as youth, leaders and parents, we should work together to prevent fellow Rwandans from falling victims of human trafficking by reporting those who try to masquerade as good Samaritans when actually their intentions are to enslave our compatriots,” said AIP Uwimana.

She explained that although victims are sometimes taken by force, or abducted, the majority are deceived or manipulated due to their vulnerability, and in most cases told not to inform anyone about it.

With at least 36 cases of human trafficking recorded in Rwanda in the last six years, majority are said to be foreigners intercepted at Rwandan border posts en route to their final destinations, and returned to their home countries.

One of the participants, a 53-year old Habibu Habiyakare commended Police for enlightening Rwandans on the issue of human trafficking which he said should be known by everyone.

Another participant, Jean Marie Vianny Niyomugabo, 18, a Senior Five student of Mirama Secondary School, appealed to his peers to avoid drug abuse.

"I have to strive to live a positive life free from drugs because they can ruin my dreams, and it’s my request that the Rwandan youth should stand up against this crime.”

editorial@newtimes.co.rw