Eight people in Rutsiro District have been arrested in connection with the alleged theft of the National Flag that was flying at the offices of Ruhingo Cell in Gihango Sector. The incident marks the second time the same flag has been stolen, raising concerns among local authorities and residents.
Theft Discovered on January 18
According to information obtained by IGIHE, the theft was discovered on the evening of January 18, 2026. While the flag was found missing, authorities say the individuals who physically removed it have not yet been officially identified as investigations continue.
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Previous Incident Linked to Earlier Theft
The incident follows a similar case reported on July 14, 2025, when the same flag was stolen. At the time, the suspect admitted responsibility for the act. Authorities believe the previous incident may be linked to the current case, prompting wider arrests as part of ongoing investigations.
Authorities Urge Protection of National Symbols
The Executive Secretary of Gihango Sector, Rutayisire Deogratias, confirmed the arrests, stating that six residents were initially detained, followed by two more, including the individual suspected in the earlier theft.
“All suspects are currently in custody at the Gihango Police Station as investigations continue,” he said. He also urged residents to recognize that protecting national symbols is a shared civic responsibility and called on the community to strengthen local security measures.
