NYAGATARE - Local authorities in Nygatare district say there is still wide spread smuggling of illicit drugs and banned local brew from neighbouring countries to the district.

At a security meeting on Wednesday, the officials noted that consumption of banned local brew commonly known as ‘Kanyanga’ and chief Waragi- manufactured from Uganda- remains the main cause of crimes in the district.

"Most of the crimes committed within the district like sexual and domestic violence and robbery are greatly attributed to consumption of these illicit drugs,” Supt. Yussuf Gasana, Nyagatare District Police commander announced.

He called on district officials to step up efforts to stem alleged smuggling of banned drugs to reduce crime.
The district commander stressed the need for mass sensitization, which he said can create awareness on the dangers of drugs.

The security meeting, chaired by the district executive secretary, Mary Kantengwa, brought together officers of security organs in the district, sector and cell executive secretaries.

The meeting also discussed ways of preventing fire outbreaks that has mainly hit Kiyombe sector and how to tame wild animals from the Akagera National Park that have previously attacked residents, especially in Karangazi sector.

On the issue of wild animals, Karangazi Executive Secretary, Emmanuel Murenzi, told the meeting that he had discussed the issue with officials from Rwanda Development
Board and they were handling it.

Ends