RWANDA NATIONAL POLICE
 Service Protection Integrity
     www.police.gov.rw

Statement by Commissioner General of the Rwanda National Police

Kigali, 25 June 2010

There has been much misreporting following a number of incidents that occurred in Kigali on Thursday 24 July.

Commissioner General of Police, Emmanuel Gasana today said "Some individuals belonging to unregistered political parties have attempted to rally support by lying about the facts surrounding these incidents and it is important for the Rwanda National Police to clarify the situation.”

About 40 individuals attempted to hold a demonstration without a permit; a request to Gasabo District to hold this demonstration had been denied in writing and the letter submitted to the organizers. 22 people were arrested and questioned – fourteen were released and eight are being held for further questioning.

Among those arrested in Bernard Ntaganda, former head of PS Imberakuri party. Mr Ntaganda is also being investigated for attempted murder of the current leader of the party, Ms Christine Mukabunani.

No one is missing as has been alleged – Sylvain Sibomana, Alice Muhirwa and Theobald Mutambirwa are among those arrested and being held for questioning.

In a separate incident, Jean Leonard Rugambage, a journalist with the suspended newspaper Umuvugizi, was shot dead by an unknown assailant as he entered his home. Investigation into this crime is currently ongoing

According to the Police Chief, "The Rwanda National Police remains deeply concerned by the fictional accounts being peddled by individuals and groups for political gains. As we carry on investigations into these disturbing incidents, we will continue to protect the safety and security of all Rwandans against those seeking to threaten law and order in Kigali and around the country.”

END

Contact:
Eric Kayiranga
Spokesperson RNP
+250 788311155
pro@police.gov.rw
eric.kayiranga@yahoo.com