On Wednesday, Rwanda National Police (RNP) handed over two motorcycles and cash to various players involved in fighting crime, especially those under Community Policing Committees.

Community policing is one of the most effective tools in the fight against and prevention of crime and it has proved effective in many parts of the world. 

In Rwanda, it has helped improve the relationship between security agencies and the ordinary people. It has also drastically led to a decline in crime ranging from petty crimes to aggravated ones.

Indeed, ensuring security is a collective effort and this message should be re-emphasised by leaders at all levels, starting from the grassroots. The improved security that we enjoy as a country is largely due to the vital role played by the general public through community policing in partnership with law enforcement agencies in the country.

Security agencies need the support of every Rwandan to consolidate the prevailing security and peace in the country.   Elements bent on destabilising the country are still at large and looking out for any slight opportunity to strike. That’s why every citizen should be security conscious to ensure that negative elements don’t live in our midst and commit crime.  

Community policing should be used by leaders to empower citizens to prevent crime or the problems that lead to crime. This will lead to mutual trust between citizens, security agencies and leaders.

However, more strategies should be put in place to enhance the partnerships with communities to enhance community crime prevention efforts.  This partnership is essential in detecting and preventing crime.