Rwanda National Police

Rwanda National Police (RNP) has cautioned members of the public against causing wildfires that damage properties and environment as well as loss of productive timber and lives.

The call was made recently in Nyabihu District, after police extinguished a  wild fires that had gutted part of Gishwati forest.  The recent forest fires resulted in two of hectares of productive commercial forestry being destroyed.

A team composed of police and local authorities in the district visited the area to sensitize them on risks posed by fire.

Speaking in Muringa sector the Mayor of Naybihu District, Theoneste Uwanzwenuwe noted that wild fires can cause serious economic loses together with added costs of replanting the affected areas.

“Though we have collectively managed to salvage some parts of the natural forest, loses have been made because the forest has multiplier benefits to the country” Uwanzwenuwe lamented.

The mayor reminded residents that they are not permitted to carry out farming activities in restricted areas forest.

The District Community Liaison Officer (DCLO)  Inspector of Police (IP) Alexandre Minani thanked residents who acted fast and joined hands to stop further spread of the fire.

Police said that the cause of the fire is being investigated and the file remains actively open until offenders are arrested for violating the laws.

It is however, believed that beekeepers might be responsible for the burning because the fires began from the middle of the forest and beehives were found at the scene.

He said such an activity is extremely dangerous and poses a significant safety risk to people and biodiversity.

“The public is being urged to come forward with any information that may help police find those responsible for torching the forests,” said the DCLO.