Motorcyclists warned against dodging Umuganda

Police, yesterday netted many motorcycle taxi operators on the road during community work hours (Umuganda).Normally, police sets up check points to identify anyone not involved in the activity.Among the check points within Kigali, The Sunday Times noted that at the Kigali Business Centre (KBC) roundabout, traffic police had impounded many motorcycles. “I was not dodging. Instead, I was on the road rushing to Kanombe where I was to participate in a joint Umuganda activity,” said Alex Byarugaba, one of the motorcyclists at KBC roundabout.However, like any other caught in the trap, the police officer at the check point said the time at which they were moving could not justify their claims.He explained that according to rules and regulations, any one travelling after 8 a.m must explain his or her destination and why they are not part of the community taking part in the monthly communal work.Police Spokesman Sup.Theos Badege, warned against the habit, saying police will enforce the law to make sure that the exercise is embraced and accorded the respect it deserves. “We shall not tolerate it. The police will not sit back but play our role in making sure that we enforce the law such that between 8and 11a.m – when work is meant to start – people explain or further steps will be taken,” he said.