EASTERN PROVINCE

NYAGATARE — The Police in Nyagatare have disarmed all local defence personnel in the district, an official said on Wednesday.

The move comes days after a local defence guard in the area shot and killed a student of Mutara Polytechnic.

This most recent death brings the number of people killed in similar incidents in the district to four within a period of six months.

The victims who were shot by local defence were residents of Mimuri, Nyagatare, Katabagemu and Tabagwe sectors.

Addressing a security meeting attended by area local defence guards, Domian Gasana, the Nyagatare Police station commander explained that the disarmament was intended to check constant misuse of guns.

He said only guards guarding banks would be allowed to carry guns.

However, he added that they are negotiating with banks to employ guards from private security companies so that they can get back their guns.

At the meeting, Col. Eugene Nkubito, the RDF 511 Brigade Commander noted that area Local defence personnel had abused their role of keeping law and order.

"Most of you have used your guns to harass the local residents instead of protecting them.

How many cases have you heard about of army or police officers shooting people in this area? Do you think you’re better than them?” he asked.

He also disclosed that there have been cases where local defence personnel have beaten and abused local residents.

"You are not supposed to beat and terrorize the people you are protecting. If you get someone in the wrong, advice that person.

If he or she refuses [to take advice] arrest the person and take him or her to police. Beating is not allowed in this country,” Nkubito said.

Gasana also urged the group to work hand in hand with the Police in order to combat crimes in the district. Out of seven districts in the province, he said, Nyagatare ranks first in crime rankings.

According to Gasana the most common crimes include; defilement, selling of local brew, fighting and cattle theft.

"I am sure that we can get rid of these crimes in our district if we commit ourselves,” Gasana said.

He also urged them to be vigilant on people moving with cows across the border.

"Some people are buying cows from Uganda and smuggling them into the country yet most of the cows are affected with foot and mouth disease. You have to be alert and arrest them,” he said.

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