Rwanda National Police

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in charge of Operations, (CP) Vincent Sano, on Monday, June 9, briefed 140 officers of Rwanda Protection Support Unit (PSU) set to be deployed to the Central African Republic (CAR) for a one-year peacekeeping mission.

The contingent, led by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) James Karasi, will be stationed in the capital, Bangui, under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

The PSU is largely charged with providing security for high profile national and international officials, including the Prime Minister, the President of the National Assembly, senior justice officials, and the head of the MINUSCA Police Component.

During the pre-deployment briefing, DIGP Sano commended the officers for their commitment, readiness, and discipline, emphasizing the importance of upholding the values of professionalism, teamwork, and respect for diversity throughout their tour-of-duty.

“You have demonstrated that you are well-prepared, properly equipped, and committed to your mission. I urge you to maintain the highest standards of discipline and professionalism. Represent our country with pride, uphold the values of our institution, and serve as ambassadors of peace and integrity,” DIGP Sano stated. 

“Continue to engage in community policing, support humanitarian activities, and collaborate closely with other forces in the mission area. While preserving our Rwandan identity, always respect the culture of the communities you serve.”

DIGP Sano pledged continued support and encouraged the officers to maintain unity and dedication throughout their one-year mission. 

He further reminded them to maintain a strong sense of duty and accountability, and handling the contingent owned equipment well.

Rwanda has been contributing police peacekeepers to the CAR since 2014. The country currently maintains four contingents there; three Formed Police Units (FPUs) and a Protection Support Unit (PSU). While FPU-1 and the PSU operate in Bangui, FPU-2 and FPU-3 are stationed in Kaga-Bandoro and Bangassou, respectively.