WESTERN PROVINCE

NYAMASHEKE - Police authorities in Kagano Sector, Nyamasheke District in the Western Province are holding ten people alleged to belong to the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

Nyamasheke District Police Commander (DPC) Superintendent Wilson Ntaganda confirmed the arrests saying they were made by police and army authorities in separate operations made over the weekend.

The culprits include Sarafina Uwamahoro, 25, Daniel Simbizi alias Coffi, , Nganuwera Itangishaka, 20, and Fabien Ndungutse and six others whose names were not yet known by press time.

"The suspects have been staying in some of the homes around the cell where they were arrested. They used those  as bases to spy on the security situation in the area” said Ntaganda, adding that the authorities got to know of their presence after suspicious residents alerted them.

Police authorities also said that the suspects were planning to provide arms to the local residents, and to mobilize and sensitize area residents into joining FDLR.

According to security organs in Kagano sector, two women, Angeline Mukabera (52) and Esther Mukamuganga who accommodated the rebels are also in police custody,
Security authorities also added that the suspects came into the area from Ijwi regions in the DRC through Lake Kivu.

The security officials in Kagano added that many others are on the run but said that they are optimistic that they would also be apprehended.

"Yes it’s true that we are part of FDLR rebels and we came with a mission of spying how security authorities operate in this district and to also encourage area residents to go and join FDLR,” Simbizi, one of those arrested told The New Times on Sunday at Rwesero police post.

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