New Year celebrations generally peaceful – Police

THE New Year celebrations were largely peaceful. The Rwanda National Police has said. According to the Police Spokesperson, Supt. Theos Badege, only three road accidents were recorded on New Year’s Eve in Gasabo, Kamonyi and Nyamasheke districts.“Unfortunately, in Nyamasheke, one person was rushed to Kibogora hospital but she passed away there,” Badege said. The victim of the Nyamasheke accident was identified as Francine Mukeshimana, 36. Monday night was “one of the most peaceful nights even far better than other festive occasions in the country,” Supt. Badege, told The New Times.“Countrywide, we had good security apart from what I can call common petty crimes such as cases of assault from people who had shared beer together and then, later, fought,” he explained.Apart from night clubs and other entertainment places, he added, many people were in churches. “There was a lot of movement. In Kigali, there were many people in Amahoro stadium, worshiping, and many others at the happy people event at the ministry of foreign affairs grounds. I think the security tips we gave before and during the festive season were helpful,” Badege added.He called on the public to maintain order and continue to cooperate with security organs and grassroots leaders as this “will guarantee that we enjoy even more security and peace.”During the festive season, the Police urged people to behave in a manner that does not disturb public order and also appealed to entertainment places to avoid noise pollution. The police increased presence around areas where revellers would flock as it assured the public of increased vigilance during the celebrations. The number of traffic police on roads was also increased.