KARONGI - Judicial police officers have been urged to always follow the right criminal procedures and avoid abusing the rights of suspects under interrogation.

The call was made on Tuesday by the Youth Association for Human rights Promotion and Development (AJPRODHO), at the closure of a 2-day sensitisation workshop for the officers. The workshop attracted over 30 police officers from Rutsiro and Karongi districts.

"Suspects and detainees should be informed of their ultimate rights before interrogation, or trial in the courts of law. You should also gather all the necessary evidence in order to help courts make the right decisions,” Patrick
Munini, a consultant and commissioner in charge of legal affairs said.

He stressed the importance of treating all suspects as innocent until they are proven guilty. "This helps to protect our image by giving the suspects confidence in our
judicial systems,” Munini added.

Most police officers who attended the workshop described the workshop as helpful, calling for similar and regular training sessions.

"It is very important to get refresher courses because it increases accuracy in conducting criminal procedures which in turn also helps courts in making the right decisions in the delivery of justice,” one police officer said.

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