Rwanda National Police

The Mayor of Nyarugenge District, Solange Mukasonga has commended Rwanda National Police (RNP) for reaching out to Community Policing Committees (CPCs) in the district and sensitizing them about security and lawfulness, which have enabled them to carry out their duties with professionalism and discipline.

Mukasonga said this while meeting with over 470 CPCs who operate in the district, during a one-day training seminar held on May 6.

The meeting also attracted hundreds of residents and RNP officers operating in the district.

During the meeting, Mayor Mukasonga noted that due to efforts of RNP through training, CPCs have become important in the fostering safety and security in their areas of operation, and they have adhered to the norms of providing timely information to authorities and sensitizing residents about the importance of collectively fighting against crime.

“CPCs role in society is very important – and that is why Police has been helpful in ensuring that they understand their role – so that they can offer more devotion fighting crime in communities,” she said.

“CPC members therefore should always be alert and know their role in fighting crimes, such as drug abuse, use of illicit alcohol, violence and others, which undermine the peace and security of Rwandan residents.”

She reminded the CPCs to be professional and disciplined at all times, in order to be exemplary members of society.

“Be exemplary for the people to trust you and help them in solving pertinent challenges. Therefore, do not lose that trust by joining gangs or collaborating with criminals to undermine security,” she added.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Community Policing, Assistant Commissioner of Police Damas Gatare, noted that CPCs should always stay close to residents and understand their challenges so that they can offer durable solutions.

“You should intensify your efforts and tighten night patrols in order to maintain a high level of security in all communities. Police has worked together with the public to ensure that peace and safety prevail. As CPCs, you are required to ensure that this safety to lives and property is sustained,” he said.

One of the CPCs who attended the seminar, Jacqueline Mukanzige, commended Police for always being available to the public, and pledged to perform his role with utmost discipline in a bid to foster public safety.

The Community Policing strategy brings the general public together in solving local problems and to contribute to the enhancement of the overall quality of life in the communities.

Community policing increases a sense of responsibility, whereby citizens understand their role in partnering with Police in solving crimes and other challenges.