Rwanda National Police

Rwanda National Police (RNP) has issued fresh stern warning against people, who continue to undermine and violate government directives on the measures to prevent the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). 

The caution comes after several people have either been arrested or handed varied penalties after they were found violating the orders.

"We have said it before; if you are caught violating the government directives, you will be treated like someone with ill-intentions of contracting and spreading the pandemic, and you will be face serious consequences," RNP spokesperson, CP John Bosco Kabera, said. 

Among the violations that continue to be observed on roads and communities, include unnecessary movements by pedestrians and motorists, people in groups who can be found on roads and trading centres literally doing nothing apart from engaging in social conversions.

Others include people, who go for essential services in groups and from the same family, either on foot or in the car; those who lie of where they are going with excuses that they are going for essential services; violation of social distancing, authorised shops that have become bars and bars which have been found operating as well as those distilling, selling or consuming illicit brew.

Bars are not authorised to open throughout the entire period of the lockdown.

"Many people have been arrested for these serious violations. We warn the general public that these operations to enforce the government directives are continuous. Varied actions will continue be to taken against any caught undermining these instructions. You will be arrested to face the law, your automobile impounded or you will be fined accordingly," CP Kabera warned. 

"RNP and all relevant entities in the enforcement of the directives continue to work together to ensure that everyone understands these instructions and their intended purpose. Force is not our immediate action but it will be applied where necessary," he emphasized. 

He appealed to the general public to be responsive rather than being forced noting that the directives are meant to guarantee everyone's safety, ensure that those infected do not spread the virus and get proper treatment.

"The only time you are allowed to leave your home is for essential services such as medical need, shopping for food or banking."

"We advise you to plan your day wisely so that you don’t have to leave your home multiple times; prioritise your nearest shopping center, market or bank; go unaccompanied; don’t lie to Police officers when stopped. Protecting yourself and others is your responsibility."

The general public are encouraged to report anyone, who disregard and violate the directives on the following Police lines:

Emergency line: 112

WhatsApp message: 0788311155