Rwanda National Police

The ongoing operations against mining malpractices in different parts of the country led to the arrest of a man in Karongi District, who was smuggling 124kgs of casseterite.

The arrest of Emmanuel Manirarora on July 13 came a day after another man was arrested in Ngororero also smuggling a combined 29kgs of casseterite and Amethyst.

At least 50 people have been arrested in separate police operations since the beginning of the year, over varied mining malpractices, including illegal mining and smuggling of minerals.

About 3000kgs of smuggled minerals have also been seized since the beginning of the year.

Reacting on the arrest of Manirarora, Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Theobald Kanamugire, Police spokesperson for the Western region, said the suspect was apprehended in Ruragwe Cell, Rubengera Sector on July 13.

“During the usual Police operations, officers stopped a vehicle, which they searched and found the minerals concealed in sacks, and that how the owner – Manirarora – was arrested,” said CIP Kanamugire.

 “We understand there are some people involved in these mining malpractices, and that’s why we are also devised means to break such illegal activities through operations and awareness,” he added.

 “These are fraudulent dealings which are aimed at tax evasion. Minerals are supposed to be tagged before they are transported by licensed dealers or companies,” the spokesperson said.

Mining is one of Rwanda’s major revenue generators, fetching about $166 million last years.