Rwanda National Police (RNP) spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga has said the law enforcers will not tolerate illegal mining, vandalism, cattle theft, and other crimes in the Southern Province.

Rutikanga said this at a press conference held on November 9, Huye District. The spokesperson spoke at about major drivers of crime in the province.

"Security in the Southern Province, like in other parts of the country, remains generally stable. However, issues such as illegal mining, vandalism, cattle theft, assault and battery, theft, smuggling, drug trafficking, and child abuse continue to pose challenges,” Rutikanga said.

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He urged the media and the public to take play a role in reporting criminal activities to ensure the safety of the community, emphasising the importance of collaboration in addressing crime.

Rutikanga said that in Southern Province a total of 495 cases of robbery and battery, 400 cases of violence, 40 cases of vandalism, 71 cases of drug dealing, 116 cases of property destruction, and 60 incidents of illegal mining were reported to the police between January and October.

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Rutikanga specifically stressed that illegal mining remains one of the biggest issues, particularly in Muhanga District, urging citizens to actively report illegal activities in their communities.

"People involved in illegal mining, vandalism, robbery, and other criminal activities are often those we live with in our communities; they are our neighbours, friends, and relatives. This is why it is crucial for all of us to take responsibility and report such individuals. Today, the victim might be your neighbour, but tomorrow it could be you,” he noted.

"Rwanda National Police will not tolerate individuals who jeopardise the safety of Rwandans by engaging in illegal mining, an activity that undermines the government's efforts to promote legitimacy and transparency,” he added.

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Rutikanga stated that the Police are aware of individuals vandalizing electricity infrastructure and other valuable properties. He assured that measures are being implemented to address these criminal acts, and those responsible will soon be brought to justice.

"Police have implemented strong enforcement measures to tackle these crimes, leading to a significant reduction compared to previous years. To address ongoing issues, law enforcement conducts evening patrols, both in uniform and plainclothes, to actively pursue and apprehend those still engaged in criminal activities.” he said

He also acknowledged the issue of cattle theft, noting that some individuals steal cows and smaller livestock to slaughter and sell them.

"This is why the Police are there to deal with people who deviate from the law and engage themselves in such illegal activities,” he noted.