WESTERN PROVINCE

RUSIZI — Police and local authorities in Kamembe, in Rusizi district on Wednesday confiscated over 150 polythene bags from market places, shops and homes in the area.

The officials said the early morning operation is aimed at protecting the environment and to enforce a ban on the illegal use of the polythene materials in the district.

The polythene materials were seized from Kamembe market, Kamembe Trading Centre, Rusizi 1 and 11 borders and residential areas of Kadashya and Mont Cyangugu.

"As you know polythene bags were totally banned from our country because they pose a threat to the environment. So today (Wednesday) we have been moving from place to place, especially in the commercial centres where much of the materials are dumped by vendors and residents buying food stuffs in the markets,” Octave Rukundo, the Executive Secretary of Kamembe Sector said.

Rukundo disclosed that those found in possession of the polythene bags were fined cash ranging from Rwf5000-20,000 depending on the number and size of the bags.

Over Rwf300, 000 was raised in fines, which Rukundo said would act as deterrent. According to police in the area, most of the polythene bags are smuggled into the country from the DR Congo.

However, a police official said they would step up operation at all borders to halt entry of the illegal products. The operation would be extended to other Sectors across the district, according to officials.

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