Rwanda National Police

Personnel of transport agencies, including drivers that operate from the Kayonza Bus Station have been called upon to play a greater role to ensure security around the bus station, and all over the country where they may reach as well. That was during a meeting with police in the area.

The main points touched upon were partnership against drug trafficking and illegal, cross-border smuggling of illicit substances.   

Addressing drivers and other transport agencies staff on Wednesday August 15, Inspector of Police (IP) Goreth Mukagatare the Kayonza Bus Station Police Post Commander called upon them to work more closely with security organs. That is so as to ensure more security by combating drug trafficking and illegal cross-border trade.

IP Mukagatare urged the drivers to be conscious as some passengers use their vehicles in drug transportation or trafficking activities, adding that they have to check passengers’ luggage and other suspect portable property.

“You know how much drugs are a security threat; you drivers have to check in the passengers’ bags to make sure there are no narcotics drugs or other illegal goods,” she said. IP Mukagatare further reminded them that Kayonza Taxi Station is a strategic drug trafficking terminus due to its strategic location.

“Buses from two of our neighboring countries use this bus station, and you know how it is possible it is for drugs from there to end up here, so let us be more attentive on the issue,” IP Mukagatare said.  

She also mentioned that there are some people from here in Rwanda that are used to travelling to neighboring countries, passing through in Kayonza Bus Station without passports. She called upon the staff of transportation agencies to take part in passenger passports check.

“We have discovered that most of people travel to neighboring countries, but without proper documentation,” said the commander. “We ask you to check all passengers’ documents,” she stressed.

Emmanuel Ntabyera the chairman of Kayonza transport agencies appreciated the advise extend to the personnel, and on behalf of them he committed to correct all mistakes that have been occurring.

“We are ready to join hands with our security organs to maintain national security; we know how much security is essential in our daily activities,” Mr. Ntabyera said.     

He further asked his work colleagues to be extra vigilant because with security nothing should be left to chance.

The transport men and women committed themselves to joining hands with Police, mainly though timely information sharing.

Approximately 200 personnel from eight transport agencies operating in the Kayonza Bus Station attended this conference.