Rwanda National Police (RNP) has urged spectators not to destruct competitors during the 16th edition of the international cycling competition, Tour du Rwanda, that gets underway on Sunday, February 19, and ends on February 25, after trekking 740 kilometers across the country.

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The RNP spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, appealed to the general public to spectate responsibly so as not to obstruct the riders and cause accidents.

"The riders will be racing through towns, trading centres and rural areas in different parts of the country, and this will attract a big number of excited spectators on streets, highways, on starting and finishing points. Avoid crossing the road recklessly, follow Police instructions especially in restricted areas, do not get close to the road, don't leave children near the road unattended," ACP Rutikanga said.

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Temporary closure of roads

The spokesperson also said that the race will affect traffic flow from time to time and urged motorists to bear with the partial interruptions.

"At some point, some roads will be temporary closed to facilitate riders. Motorists are advised to wait patiently until the roads are reopened or use the available alternative routes as they will be directed by Police officers who are there to facilitate you, to ensure a safer and incident-free cycling competition.”

For further information, the public is urged to call the following lines, for assistance: 112, 113 (toll-free lines), 0788311110, 0788311502 and 0788311155.

There will be daily updates, on the RNP social media platforms, on roads that will be affected.