Rwanda National Police

The Rwanda National Police’s ongoing efforts to sensitize Rwandan youths to avoid drug abuse and other criminal offences – through partnership with security organs – were center stage again last Sunday, August 19. 

The campaign took place in Gasabo district, in the Kagugu Cell of Kinyinya Sector where over 250 youths were called upon to play an enhanced role in fighting crimes, with drug abuse being the major focus of the day.

Addressing the youths, the District Community Liaison Officer (DCLO), Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Irene Umuhozari advised the youths to engage in more teamwork with the security organs as well as local leaders to unsure more effective combating of drug abuse and other criminal activities.

CIP Umuhozari mentioned that drugs are the primary source of a number of offenses, like gender-based violence, theft, and aggressive behavior amongst others.“As long as you become addicted to drugs, it affects you psychologically, you lose control of your life and final the drugs lead you into criminal offences,” the DCLO said.

She also added that drugs have a (negative) economic impact, either to the addict, to the family and even to the entire nation. “Rwandan law does not tolerate crime, especially drug-related crime. When one is jailed the family will be affected and the country as well,” she saidwith emphasis.

She further called upon the youths to desist and fight against drugs by playing a greater role in detecting and preventing their consumption through timely information sharing. She also urged the youths to be ambassadors of Police in society in being the first line of defense against crimes and drugs.

The youths appreciated the guidance delivered by DCLO, and expressed determination to work more closely with security organs.

“We really value the advice we have just received and from today we are going to do our best to prevent drugs and other crimes affecting our society, and especially the youths,” said Moses Ndagijimana the Kagugu Youths Coordinator.     

The youths added they were committed to working hand in hand with security organs through timely information sharing. They initiated anti drugs and anti crime clubs in addition.