KARONGI- A man and two women have been killed within a period of one week in Karongi District.

This was announced during events to kick start the week dedicated towards the fight against Gender Based Violence, Tuesday, where residents were urged to actively participate in ensuring their own safety.

Six people are currently in police custody in connection with the killings. Available statistics show this to be the highest murder rate so far, police said.

"Since these incidences that often result into death begin in your homes, you have the capacity to stop them," Inspector Erick Mwiseneza Kabera, the Karongi acting District Police Commander told residents.

He noted that GBV is a hindrance to national development and encouraged the public to cooperate with Police in reducing crime by reporting any suspicious activities.

Kabera disclosed that between January and September this year, more than 30  sexual violence cases against minors were registered while four women were also reported to have been raped.

According to area residents, the deceased may have been murdered due to land wrangles.

Meanwhile, on the same day, 30 cows were distributed to vulnerable people under the Girinka programme.

Most beneficiaries said the cows would help to improve their social and economic lives.

"Since most of us depend on farming, the cow will enable me to get manure for my farm as I also earn an income from the milk," a beneficiary identified as Pierre Habineza said.

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