SOUTHERN PROVINCE

RUHANGO—Police in Ruhango District has commended residents for their vigilance on security through community policing programmes.

The Ruhango District Police Commander, Superintendent Fred Simugaya, said that the participation of residents has led to improved security and peace in the district.

In an interview with The New Times last week, Supt Simugaya described community policing as a success due to the collaboration between police and area residents.

Simugaya revealed that on May 14, residents of Gitisi cell, Bweramana sector; arrested and disarmed an armed robber, identified as Salim Kabera Rwamuhama, 28, and his accomplice identified as Pascal Mpawenimana- who have since been prosecuted.

"The robbers possessed a pistol (No. ANC 64-599) and intended to rob a business man-Samuel Ntakirutimana. Residents noticed the suspicious movements and intercepted them with the help of police officers,” he said. 

He added that through the programme  residents have acquired skills on crime detection and prevention. The Police chief added that security issues are regularly discussed in community policing committees.

"The participation of residents in night patrols is voluntary and their cooperation and collaboration with police has been paramount in attaining set goals of the community policing programme,” the police chief said.

Supt. Simugaya encouraged residents to maintain the cooperation and own community policing programmes in order to sustain the current levels of security vigilance in the district.

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