Rwanda National Police

Police in Nyagatare District is holding commercial motorcyclists for allegedly felling about 71 tones of tree, an act said to be against the law on environmental protection.

Sebushumba Eduard and Jean Bosco Kanyarutoki were arrested on Wednesday red handed at about midnight in Gakirage Cell in Nyagatare Sector.

Inspector of Police, Emmanuel Kayigi, Police spokesperson for the Eastern region said the duo was found with the tree stumps parked in sacks.

They are currently detained at Nyagatare Police Station, where also the exhibits were taken, as investigations are still underway.

The Eastern Province faces relatively higher cases related to environmental degradation with majority of those arrested cut a local tree plant called Kabaruka said to be trafficked abroad where it is used as a raw material in the manufacture of lotions and perfumes.

IP Kayigi said: "Cutting or transporting trees from one location to another requires authorization because this is one way of regulating and conserving forests and nature. Anyone who will be found violating any of the laws will be held accountable.”

Such illegal acts have varied impact on the culprits, their families and on nature itself. The law to avoid such or prosecute those involved is clear and active,” he warned.

Article 416 of the penal code states that any person who illegally sets fire to, cuts trees or who causes others to do so or kills animals in classified forests, protected areas and national parks, shall be liable to a term of imprisonment of six months to two years and a fine of Rwf300, 000 to Rwf2 million or one of these penalties.

He urged the general population to shun and fight such activities noting that the consequences are cross-cutting and affect all.

He further appealed to everyone to desist and prevent any crime and report anyone involved in illegal activities.

Rwanda National Police (RNP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) to join efforts to preserve the environment while enforcing the organic law on environment.

Recently, about 180 police officers countrywide trained on environmental law and environmental crimes.