English
Kinyarwanda
Sixteen marine officers from the Rwanda National Police (RNP) and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) completed a two-week Vessel Boarding, Search and Seizure (VBSS) course conducted in Lake Kivu in Rubavu District.
The training, which concluded on Friday, November 28, aimed at strengthening joint maritime security operations and enhancing the officers’ preparedness to safeguard Rwanda’s water bodies.
The course was conducted in partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).
Presiding over the pass-out, Commissioner of Police (CP) Rafiki Mujiji, Commandant of the National Police College (NPC) emphasized the significance of the training in building maritime professionalism.
“Today, we celebrate not only a completed training but the growth of individual officers and the strengthening of our national capacity to protect our waters, safeguard our communities, and uphold maritime law and order,” CP Mujiji said.
He emphasized the critical importance of VBSS skills in preventing crimes such as smuggling, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and pollution violations.
“This training directly strengthens operational effectiveness, safety, and compliance with national and international maritime security standards,” he noted.
Boarding a vessel, especially one that is non-compliant, he said, presents dangers adding that proper VBSS training prepares officers to use safe approach techniques, tactical movements, and defensive responses to minimize risks.
CP Mujiji thanked UNITAR for its strong partnership in capacity development.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Charles Butera, the Commanding Officer of the Police Marine Unit, said the occasion not only marks the climax of weeks of hard work and dedication, but also emphasizes an incredible step in enhancing maritime operation capabilities.
