Police to promote public partnership

The Rwanda National Police (RNP) will in 2013 strengthen the police-public partnership in a bid to fight crime.While talking to The New Times about the police’s past challenges and plans for the New Year, Superintendent Theos Badege, RNP’s spokesperson said public cooperation in 2012 helped to track various criminals involved in drugs, illicit alcohol and gender based violence among other crimes. He noted that last year was characterised by a steady fight against different vices among the youth and the community in general.“The fight will be intensified through awareness campaigns among the Rwandan community and continuous training of members of community policing about factors which push people to commit crimes,” Badege said, adding that in 2013, the force will refine structures of sharing information.About 2012 challenges, Badege said the national police’s operations were hindered by the lack of awareness on causes of offences among citizens. Most Rwandans also failed to respect rules. “People still think that police has to put pressure on them so that they can respect rules. That’s a big challenge,” said Badege. “Consider for example people who talk on phone while driving. It’s simple. Do not talk on the phone while driving but many people have failed to abandon it!”RNP has, however, benefited from the regional cross border crime framework. As a result, people cannot commit crimes in a country and expect to find a haven in the neighbouring one.The force has also set up an emergency toll free line – 3511- for which victims of abuse and bribery can call to report such cases.