Rwanda National Police

Members of Community Policing Committees (CPCs) in Rutsiro have been urged to initiate stronger measures against crime and lawlessness in their neighborhoods.

The message was delivered during a meeting in Mukura Sector, which attracted over 180 CPCs and residents and local leaders of Rutsiro District, as well as Rwanda National Police (RNP) officers operating in the district.

The aim of the meeting was to revitalize partnerships in crime prevention and foster safety and security, as well as foster the initiative of Community policing through identification of likely crimes and criminals, and the provision of timely information to authorities.

Safari Anastase, in charge of Civil Affairs in Mukura, noted that CPCs have been influential in promoting law and order in communities by sensitizing their neighborhoods about the need to fight crime – and urged them to continue their relationship with RNP.

 “Continue the good work and perform your duties with utmost devotion and ensure that criminals do not infiltrate communities. Always uphold professionalism, be disciplined and exemplary members of society by not collaborating with wrongdoers but by promoting fairness and justice.”

The District Community Liaison Officer of Rutsiro, Inspector of Police Jerome Nsabuwera, reminded the CPCs to maintain close links with residents and help them solve or report disputes before they escalate into community security concerns.

“You are required to ensure that this safety of your residents is sustained for today and tomorrow. Whenever they face disputes of any kind, always be available to assists them and also report to Police as soon as possible so that intervention can be availed before it is too late,” 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.”

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