According to figures presented by the District Police Commander, SP Evode Nkurunziza, a total of 313 crimes were recorded in Nyagatare District in just one and a half months. Among these crimes, smuggling was the most prevalent, accounting for 109 cases, indicating that some people still do not fully understand the consequences of illegal activities, especially in areas close to the borders.
These issues were discussed during an expanded security meeting held on 18 December, which brought together village leaders, cell leaders, and sector leaders from across Nyagatare District.
The meeting aimed to jointly assess the overall security situation, analyze the crime statistics that had been recorded, and put in place concrete measures to continue building a peaceful and secure community, particularly during the end-of-year festive season.
In addition, within the same one-and-a-half-month period, security organs working together with citizens seized 1,052 liters of illicit liquor (kanyanga) and 117 kilograms of cannabis. These crimes were most common in Rwempasha Sector, which ranked highest in the number of offenses related to illegal trade.
The Mayor of Nyagatare District, Gasana Stephen, commended the cooperation between security agencies and local government leaders, noting that although crimes still occur, commendable progress has been made in preventing and combating them.
He reminded village leaders that they are the foundation of grassroots security, urging them to work more closely with residents, listen to their concerns, and share information in a timely manner. He said:
“Security starts at the village level. When a village leader plays an active role and works closely with residents and security organs, crime decreases. During this festive season, we call on everyone to remain vigilant, fight against excessive drinking and drug abuse, and report any activity that could threaten security.”
Village leaders also expressed their readiness to strengthen their responsibilities.
Sabiti Jean Bosco, the Village Leader of Gakoma in Rwisirabo Cell, Karangazi Sector, said they would intensify public awareness campaigns encouraging residents to return home early, avoid conflicts, and provide information promptly.
He stated:
“Security is not the responsibility of security organs alone; it is the duty of every citizen. We will continue working with our residents to ensure that the festive season ends in peace.”
On the other hand, Habimana Bonaventure, the Village Leader of Murore in Gashenyi Cell, Rukoma Sector, said they would prioritize dialogue with residents, especially the youth, to help them avoid drug abuse and other crimes that tend to increase during this period. He emphasized that village leadership would remain close to the population on a daily basis.
Major General Ruki Karusisi, the Commander of the 5th Division of the Rwanda Defence Force, who attended the meeting, emphasized that national security is built on cooperation among all institutions, particularly local government structures.
He reminded participants that preventing crime is better than punishing it and called for timely and reliable information sharing.
He said:
“National security is built on cooperation among all institutions, especially local authorities, because they interact with citizens on a daily basis. When we work together effectively, we can prevent crimes before they occur, which is far better than punishing crimes that have already happened. I urge you to continue providing information in a timely and reliable manner, because information is a powerful tool in safeguarding security.”
Maj. Gen. Karusisi also praised the progress made in seizing drugs and arresting smugglers, calling for sustained momentum, especially during the festive season, so that citizens can enjoy full security.
