Rwandan police hails public for peaceful festive season

There were no serious accidents and crimes recorded during the New Year celebrations, police said yesterday.Police spokesperson Damas Gatare attributed it to the vigilance of the pubic and security agencies.“There were no major incidents recorded as people were cautious. Only three minor accidents were recorded, with no injuries. We commend the public for abiding by the laws and remaining calm during the festive season,” he said.Gatare added that police had stepped up security measures during the period, including having more patrols on the roads, public sensitisation campaigns as well as strengthening community policing.He urged the public to continue cooperating with the police and other security agencies in order to reduce the crime rate in the country.One of the minor accidents occurred after one car hit a pole in Kigali while the others took place in Nyabihu and Gakenke districts where two cars collided.Meanwhile, the celebration was calm even in some notorious spots across the Eastern Province.In Rwamagana, the New Year Eve celebrations involved hundreds of residents who thronged pubs and discotheques to usher in the New Year.Bars were jammed while roads hosted crowds of people hugging and taking snapshots.“We had a good day, no accidents and no incidents of violence,” said John Kirenga, a resident of Rwamagana.Popular Impala and Imarange musical groups performed at Avega recreation hall in Rwamagana town, where hundreds of residents danced till dawn.The Governor of Eastern Province, Odette Uwamariya, joined the residents as they sang and danced the night away.“This is not time for speeches. I am here in a different fashion, to dance and enjoy with you. The only thing I can say is; ‘Happy New Year to you all,’” she said attracting applause from the audience.Popular clubs in other districts in the province were filled with party goers. Silent Hill and 5/5 Pubs were packed with jubilant crowds as well.Meanwhile, more than 1,000 animals mainly cows and goats, were slaughtered in abattoirs and homes across the province during the festive season.“We are estimating basing on official figures from known abattoirs,” said Jean de Dieu Ntirenganya, Rwamagana Veterinary officer.

National

Rwandan police hails public for peaceful festive season