Rwanda National Police (RNP) has commended the vigilance exhibited by a driver of one of the travel agencies commuting Kigali-Rusumo highway, after the latter facilitated the capture of drug smugglers.

The driver of Matunda Express – a local travel agency– on October 9, called the police in Kirehe District reporting two men, who had concealed at least 30 kilogrammes of cannabis in traveling bags.

Police spokesperson for the Eastern region, Inspector of Police Emmanuel Kayigi, identified the suspects as Jean Baptiste Safari, and Tadeo Nsengimana, who were found with 15 kilogrammes each.

IP Kayigi said that as the driver was loading the luggage of the duo in Cyunuzi, Gatore sector at about 6a.m, he noticed that their bags were loaded with cannabis.

"The driver called Kirehe police,” Kayigi said.

"He pretended as if he was waiting for other passengers until police officers arrived, searched the luggage and arrested the two men, before he could continue with his daily business,” he added.

"In the recent past, we have seen similar scenarios, especially in Kirehe, where drivers of travel agencies either call the police, drive the vehicle to a police post along the way or to a police station after noticing that they have drug dealers on board; this is a sign of responsiveness, ownership and vigilance that we commend as police,” IP Kayigi said.

"This is the spirit that should define all drivers and all travellers, safety and security is for the wellbeing of all and maintaining it should be duty of everyone,” he added.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw