Rwanda National Police has launched a search for John Ndabarasa, a journalist who went missing three weeks ago.

Ndabarasa worked as Chief Editor at Sana Radio, a Christian radio station.

Speaking to The New Times yesterday, Celestin Twahirwa, the police spokesperson, said Police had opened investigations into Ndabarasa’s whereabouts with initial reports suggesting that he could have travelled outside the country.

"Upon receiving reports of his disappearance, the police immediately launched investigation and search especially now that we hear he might have travelled outside the country, we are engaging members of the family on a number of details,” he said.

Justin Kagame is a friend to Ndabarasa.

In an interview, Kagame recalled that on the eve of his disappearance on August 8, he received a message from Ndabarasa, saying he had some business to do in Kampala, Uganda.

Ndabarasa sent the message while at Gatuna border, indicating he was to return the next day, but since then his phone went off, said Kagame.

He said that several efforts to reach members of his family have been futile.

The New Times’ efforts to talk to Ndabarasa’s sister were also fruitless as her known number could not go through.

Ndabarasa, who has been residing in Gatenga , a Kigali suburb, is known for his passion for music and history, and has featured in a song "Rwanda” with the renowned singer Massamba Intore. The journalist has also released three solo songs, including Arasesekaye, Nyobora and Ntituzabibagirwa.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw