Rwanda National Police

Identifying likely security threats and working with the local communities is paramount in ensuring tight safety and peace in the society.

The message was delivered by Inspector of Police, Alexandre Mwezi while speaking to about 180 members of Community Policing Committees in Gakenke District, during their training held on March 25.

IP Mwezi, who is also Gakenke District Community Liaison Officer (DCLO), urged the community security personnel to put much emphasis in fighting illicit drugs and gender and domestic violence, which are still common in societies.

He also took them through the forms of violence and types of illicit drugs sold and used in Rwanda.

"Working in a team and as a community is vital for everyone to feel involved. We have to cement this partnership in night patrols to deter criminals from executing their unlawful and criminal plans," IP Mwezi told participants.

Uwimana Focus, the executive secretary of Nemba sector, who also attended the one day exercise, noted that safety and security shouldn't be defined as a one man role.

"Police is there to work with us to ensure an enjoyable atmosphere in our communities and let's go a step further," Uwimana, who commended the great work the CPCs do in the area.

The exercise also included open discussion in which participants exchanged ideas on how better to execute their duties in a cooperative spirit.

Joseline Nyirahashyi, one of the participants thanked Rwanda National Police for empowering communities to take the lead in ensuring own safety.