Rwanda National Police

The Mayor of Nyagatare District David Mushabe has called upon local leaders to closely work with security organs to effectively prevent criminal activities, particularly drug abuse in the district.

The mayor sounded the message on August 13, during a one-day security meeting that brought together over 300 people. These included all Sector and cell executive secretaries, members of security organs, and other players and stakeholders.

The meeting’s aim was to review and discuss the security status as well as implementation of varied government development programs. Desired end results included drawing more, and fresh strategies to address existing challenges.

The meeting resolved that fighting drug abuse be incorporated in the performance contract of all local leaders in the district.

While addressing the meeting, Mayor Mushabe called for cooperation and collaboration amongst local leaders, as well as public and security organs through information sharing to effectively and efficiently prevent criminal activities, particularly drug abuse.

“Drug abuse fuels up other criminal activities like assault, theft, rape and defilement,” stressed the mayor. “It is the responsibility of us all to fight narcotic drugs, but this is only possible when we all stand up against the vice, sharing information on those involved to ensure that suspects are arrested,” he added.

Mushabe noted the importance of security is an ideal basis for development. “It is because of security that Rwanda has been able to make significant development strides.

“However, for this security to be sustainable, and to ensure that the country takes higher developmental strides, it is paramount that we all join hands to fight all kinds of criminal offences, even the ones that are considered petty crimes.”

The Mayor further challenged local leaders to strive for closer teamwork and more, credible information sharing. “Team spirit and shared information leads to improved welfare and economic prosperity, and subsequently to community development,” he said.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Pierre Tebuka the Nyagatare District Police Commander (DPC) hailed the cooperation between public and security organs, particularly in the area of crime prevention. He however cautioned that, despite the drop in criminal offences, drug abuse continues to dominate other crimes committed in the Nyagatare district.

SSP Tebuka appealed to local leaders, particularly village and cell leaders to identify offenders in their jurisdictions; those suspected to be involved in narcotic drugs business. He advised that quickly shared tips and information with the police will ensure that such people are arrested and brought to book.