Rwanda National Police

Police in Rwamagana District, on Thursday, arrested a 26 year old man in Kigabiro Sector identified as Paul Uwayezu after he was found in possession of fake money amounting to Rwf44, 000.  

According to Police, they received credible information on Uwayezu’s criminal dealings, and acting on it, they arrested him red-handed in Cyanya Cell.

Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Hamdun Twizeyimana, the Police spokesperson for Eastern Region said that Uwayezu was at the time traveling from Kigali to Rwamagana District by public means, and paid a fake note of Rwf1, 000, on arrival at his destination.

“Uwayezu attempted to pay the fare using counterfeit notes, but it was detected by the conductor; they immediately called the police and officers arrived shortly before he could leave the venue. When they searched him they recovered 17 other fake notes in denomination of Rwf5, 000, Rwf2, 000 and Rwf1, 000 on him,” CIP Twizeyimana explained.

The spokesperson added that the suspect disclosed another person connected to this counterfeit case. Uwayezu had bought fake money amounting to Rwf50, 000 at Rwf25, 000.

CIP Twizeyimana warned against such tendencies of dealing in counterfeit currencies and called for vigilance and partnership in identifying and arresting individuals involved. He further appealed to the general public to always be vigilant when receiving money.

“The general public, especially the business community are required to always be vigilant and check the given currency notes thoroughly to fight and prevent such financial crimes, which have ill-impact on the economy.”

“The effects of counterfeit to a trader are grave as they could easily lead them out of business. This is why we continuously request the public to be cautious about fake money.”

Article 269 of the Penal Code states that, “Any person who, fraudulently counterfeits, falsifies or alters coins or bank notes which are legal tender in Rwanda or abroad, notes issued by the Treasury with its stamp or brand, either banknotes or alike that have legal tender in Rwanda or abroad, or one who introduces or issues in Rwanda such effects or notes with knowledge that they are forged or falsified, commits an offence. Upon conviction, he/she is liable to imprisonment for a term of not less than five years and not more than seven years.”