Police, Rubavu District foster ties

The Rwanda National Police and Rubavu have signed a memorandum of understanding to safeguard the security of the district and promote collaboration in other developmental activities. Deputy Inspector-General of Police Stanley Nsabimana said the signing of the memorandum, yesterday at Gisenyi Sector will bolster security in the region. “We have been working together on many issues, including security, but have now formalised our relationship,” said Nsabimana. Rubavu borders eastern DR Congo, which harbours tens of militia groups, including the Interahamwe militia who are largely blamed for orchestrating the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Both sides, according to Police, will work minimising drug abuse and illicit weapons. They will also strengthen the capacity of community policing committees by training members to enable them contain threats in the area. Rubavu mayor Sheikh Hassan Bahame said the memorandum of understanding will help improve the collaboration of the two sides. “The difference is that now given that we signed MoU, we are more tight than before. Everything happening will be noted and more reports will be provided to relevant authorities,” he said. “It will really change the working conditions, the normal way was good but this one will be better, we will be working closer than ever.” He also said drugs and weapons are among the main issues that need to be addressed urgently. Meanwhile, the Police officials met motorcyclists and warned them against transporting passengers who indulge in talking security issues. Police asked the motorcyclists to be agents of security by avoiding people with drugs or engaging in any kinds of illegal transactions. Rwanda National Police have already signed such memorandum of understanding with Nyamasheke, Kicukiro, Nyanza, Burera and Gatsibo districts. Police sources say the ties are bearing fruits in security monitoring and policing.