Rwanda National Police

Community Policing Committees (CPCs) should do more to foster safety and security in their areas of operation by always providing timely information to authorities and sensitizing residents about the importance of collectively fighting against crime.

The message was delivered by the Mayor of Gasabo, Steven Rwamurangwa, on May 5 while addressing over 370 CPCs operating in the district.

The one-day meeting also attracted hundreds of residents and Rwanda National Police (RNP) officers operating in the district.

In his remarks, Mayor Rwamurangwa reminded the CPCs that their role in society is very important and that they should perform their duties with utmost devotion to ensure that safety and security in communities is sustained.

“CPC members are required to be professional, disciplined and exemplary members of society. This is why they are offered this task of helping security organs to watch over the security and peace in communities. Therefore, you should all keep up the good work and ensure that nobody conducts or gets away with criminal activities,” he said.

“You should as well continue to stay close to residents and help them solve or report disputes that they may have, and also discuss solutions to pertinent challenges.”

The Commissioner for Community Policing in RNP, ACP Damas Gatare urged the CPCs to redouble their efforts and tighten night patrols in order to maintain a high level of security in all communities.

“Police has worked together with the public to ensure that peace and safety prevails. As CPCs, you are required to ensure that this safety to lives and property is sustained for today and tomorrow,” he said.

“You should maintain a respectable stature in society so that people can trust you. Do not collaborate with criminals but instead, always collaborate with Police to ensure that all those who want to destabilize the safety of others can be brought to book.”

One of the CPCs who attended the seminar, Callixte Gatera, commended Police for always being available to the public, and pledged to perform his role with utmost discipline in a bid to foster public safety.

“Respecting the rule of law is important and every peace-loving citizen should ensure that stability and safety are maintained. As a CPC in Gasabo, I will endeavor to work with my colleagues and the rest of the community to solve pertinent challenges and to provide information on any suspected criminals,” he said.

The Community Policing strategy brings the general public together in solving local problems and to contribute to the enhancement of the overall quality of life in the communities.

Community policing increases a sense of responsibility, whereby citizens understand their role in partnering with Police in solving crimes and other challenges.