Rwanda National Police

Police in Rulindo District have recovered at least 141 kilograms of minerals, which went missing from Rutongo mining concession located in Masoro Sector, recently.

Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Hamdun Twizeyimana, the Northern region Police spokesperson, said that the mining company filed a complaint of minerals especially cassiterite, that are stolen from their concessions.

“On July 24, Police in Rulindo conducted an operation in response to increased illegal mining activities and theft of minerals especially in Rutongo mines. During the operations, two motorcycles carrying were intercepted; one motorcycle RC 860W had 70kgs while another one; RB 794J had 71kgs,” CIP Twizeyimana said.

The riders, however, abandoned the motorcycles and fled after seeing the Police, he explained.

“We had information that thieves mainly use motorcycles; these two motorcycles impounded were also in one of the reports that they are being used,” he added.

“Operations against illegal mining activities, illegal mineral trade and theft,” CIP Twizeyimana said.

He called upon residents to report people they suspect to be involved in such unlawful activities.

Article 438 of the penal code, stipulates that; “Any person who undertakes illegal research or illegally carries out commercial activities in valuable minerals, shall be liable to imprisonment of six months to one year and a fine of up to Rwf10 million.”