The Rwanda National Police (RNP) is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Established in June 2000 through the merger of the National Gendarmerie, the Communal Police, and Judicial Police Inspectors, the RNP has grown into a modern institution central to Rwanda’s security and development.
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Over the past 25 years, the force has invested heavily in both human resources and advanced equipment, enabling officers to maintain security domestically and contribute to international missions.
Marine Police Unit
The Marine Police Unit operates sophisticated boats equipped with cameras and powerful searchlights for personnel transport and rescue operations. Officers also use specialised diving gear to conduct underwater rescues and retrieve objects during drowning incidents.
Air Support Unit
The Air Support Unit uses helicopters for aerial surveillance, transmitting real‑time images to ground teams. Drones are also widely deployed for law enforcement and public safety.
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CIP Félicien Kanamugire, head of the Drone Unit, explained that high‑speed drones can travel up to 100 km/h and remain airborne for four hours, streaming live footage. Short‑range drones feature night‑vision cameras and spotlights, capable of detecting individuals even in dense forests like Nyungwe.
Some drones are fitted with loudspeakers for public awareness campaigns, while future acquisitions will include firefighting drones for high‑rise buildings and crowd‑control drones capable of spraying water or dye.
Bomb Disposal and Robotics
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The Counter‑Terrorism Training Center’s Bomb Disposal Unit employs advanced robots, including “Robotic Security Dogs” that detect explosives and hazardous chemicals. Other robots can navigate terrain, enter buildings, defuse explosives, and even neutralize threats with mounted weapons.
Canine (K9) Unit
The K9 Unit uses trained dogs to detect narcotics, explosives, and other contraband. Rwanda is now developing local breeding and training programs, supported by veterinary facilities with incubators for premature puppies, diagnostic tools, and structured training routines.
Crowd Control and Traffic Enforcement
For riot control, the RNP deploys Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and specialised anti‑riot vehicles equipped with tear gas and water dispersal systems. Traffic enforcement relies on motorcycles, patrol cars, speed cameras, and advanced screening equipment to manage large crowds efficiently.
Fire and Rescue Brigade
Established in 2002 with just one truck, the Fire and Rescue Brigade now operates a fleet of high‑reach trucks capable of tackling fires in buildings over 50 meters tall. In Kigali, trucks are strategically stationed near UTC, Remera, Masoro, and Police Headquarters in Kacyiru to ensure rapid response.
