Rwanda National Police

Two people, who were selling petroleum products on black market in Rubavu district, were arrested in a Police operation in Rubavu District. 

They were at the time found in possession of 715 litres of diesel, which were recovered in their store.

One of the suspects; Valens Habiyaremye 42, was found with 505 litres of diesel while Fabrice Ndayisaba, 33, had 210 litres.

Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Bonaventure Twizere Karekezi, the Police spokesperson of the Western region, said the suspects were arrested in Bugoyi cell, Gisenyi sector.

“They buy fuel from drivers of vehicles used by road construction companies in Rubavu. The trucks park near their rental house,” he explained.

"It is illegal, dangerous and a security concern to keep or sell these inflammables in your house. It is a security concern not only to you but also to all occupants and neighbouring communities," said CIP Karekezi. 

“Selling such petroleum products is only allowed to authorized petrol stations. We encourage residents to report these illegal and dangerous acts." 

There are laws and regulations of how these petroleum products should be packaged, transported and stored to ensure standards, quality and safety.

Article 6 of Law No. 85/2013 of 11/9/2013 regulating petroleum and petroleum products trade in Rwanda, partly states that “any person, who shall perform any type of petroleum and petroleum products trade shall have a license from the competent authority.”

Article 22 also specifies the safety of petroleum products with respect to conditions related to “stores and other places exclusively reserved for the parking of petroleum and petroleum products tankers” determined by the competent authority,” to prevent causing accidents.