Rwanda National Police

Rwanda National Police (RNP) has warned against destruction of public property like electricity poles, water pipes and meters, and called on the general public to institute community policing measures to protect them and report those who destroy or steal them.

The caution follows the arrest of a commercial motorcyclist in Nyagatare District on April 14, with five stolen water meters that were serving a Chinese company in the area.

Theogene Gakunzi, 27, was arrested by community night patrol in Tabagwe Sector and handed over to police.

He is held at Nyagatare Police Station as investigations commence.

Also seized from the suspect were tools which he supposedly used to vandalize and steal the property.

"These public utility properties provide communities with valuable services; however, some individuals overlook the importance of such infrastructure and vandalize them for their own selfish needs, which everyone should stand up against," Inspector of Police, Emmanuel Kayigi, Police spokesperson for the Eastern region, said.

He noted that whereas public property belongs to all Rwandans in general, several people in society do not realized their value and instead misuses or vandalize them.

He commended the work of community night patrols working tirelessly in maintaining peace and security.

"Community night patrols have been instrumental in helping Police to ensure maximum safety for lives and property. We need to continue this fruitful partnership, make it stronger through Community Policing, and fight against criminality," he said.

"We will continue with awareness programs in order to make the people aware of their importance of protecting public property and preventing criminality and illegal activities. The public should continue to cooperate with police to arrest all wrongdoers," he said.

He reminded the public to alert Police through emergency toll free numbers like 112 for emergency, 3512 for GBV, 997 (corruption), 3511 (abuse by Police officer) and report any suspicious activity or individual considered a threat to their safety and peace in the community.