Overcoming crime and sustaining community safety is a collective act that requires police and the general population to partner in solving crimes and apprehending criminals.
Residents of Muhanga District listened to the police call on July 14 during a community meeting that aimed to consolidate the district’s sustainable development.
The meeting was held in Nyamabuye Sector, attracting hundreds of residents, local leaders and police officers operating in the district.
Yvonne Mutakwasuku, the mayor of Muhanga said that modern policing requires strong partnership, as well as mutual trust between law enforcers and residents, which are a necessity in building a longstanding foundation for community security.
“The involvement of citizens in crime prevention is essential to ensuring that Muhanga is a vibrant and healthy district that places its highest priority on quality of life for all its citizens. Each individual’s commitment to participate in an organized community policing initiative does indeed make an impact,” she said.
“There are a variety of crime prevention initiatives and commitments that all citizens are encouraged to participate in; including youth sensitizations, neighborhood watch, crime awareness, as well as timely information sharing with police.”
The District Police Commander of Muhanga, Senior Superintendent (SSP) Francis Muheto, noted that citizens should act as the eyes and ears of the community and ensure that they inform police instantly whenever they witness a crime or suspect potential criminals.
“The role of citizens in crime prevention is to help create a safe and sustainable environment by observing and reporting any suspicious and possibly criminal activities to the Police. The personal safety of citizen volunteers in community policing is paramount; therefore, your actions to record the details of what you observe and alert authorities, is a proven and effective crime prevention tool,” he said.
Citizens who attended the meeting commended Rwanda National Police (RNP) for reaching out to their communities with strong messages against crimes, which has increased partnership in overcoming crimes such as gender-based-violence, drug abuse, burglary and other crimes.
They also pledged strong commitment in the RNP general ideal of crime prevention by identifying and reporting what might threaten their community safety and security.