RWAMAGANA-Police in Rwamagana District yesterday arrested 30 suspected criminals in a surprise pre-dawn operation.

The 28 men and 2 women, aged between 20 and mid 50s, hail from various districts across the country.

12 of the suspects were caught red handed with marijuana and illicit alcohol commonly known as Kanyanga, while the rest either lacked IDs or had known criminal records.

Police also seized a motor cycle, tailoring machines and other items suspected to have been stolen.

Supt Alex Rutabayiru, the Rwamagana District Police Commander (DPC), said the operation was part of the ongoing Police initiative to tackle organized crime.

He said that twelve of the arrested are being held on suspension of involvement in various criminal activities.

"The operation is about tackling people suspected of being involved in a various criminal activities,” he said.

"Criminal activities could include money laundering, drug-related crimes, fraud and importing counterfeit goods. All these crimes have no room in our communities.”

Valerie Rubibi, the Executive Secretary of Kigabiro sector, said the operation was sending out a message to criminals that authorities are determined to disrupt their activities.

He praised some residents who acted as whistleblowers in the operation and the local leaders who played a role in locating the suspects.

Rubibi noted that Marijuana and local brew have been the root cause of other crimes like rape and robbery.

"Today’s operation is another opportunity to remind the law-abiding public how they can play their part in dismantling criminal networks. We're asking people to report any suspicious activities,” he said.

Gasasira Gasito, one of the main suspected drug dealers, said the marijuana was brought in his houses without his knowledge.

But other suspects pinned him as the main coordinator of the drug trafficking exercise. All the suspects were still held at Rwamagana Police Station, by press time.

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