Police have come of age to win public trust. The force has reassured the public of their safety and that of their property. Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the Police spokesperson Chief Supt. Celestin Twahirwa said the force is vibrant and keeps adopting new measures to flow with the policing environment needs. He made the remarks during the event of handing over stolen items that were recovered by Police, to rightful owners, during which he also reacted to the recently released 2015 Gallup Global Law and Order Report. The report, released last week, ranked Rwanda the number one country in Africa and fifth globally where people feel safe walking alone at night. “For Rwanda to have such a conducive and secure environment, several security agencies, including Rwanda National Police and the public, work tirelessly to ensure that,” said CSP Twahirwa. He added that the ranking gives courage to work even harder. “We promise to work in partnership with all public and private institutions, and the general public. This partnership which has seen communities adopting community policing strategies like night patrols, neighbourhood watch and timely information sharing are key to safety,” he added. “There are times when people encounter cases like petty theft, but in most cases those involved are arrested due to the bond that exists between security organs and the public.” According to Anthony E. Chima, a Nigerian investor and Managing Director of Orient Hotel, who is among those who collected their recovered items, such reports attest to the security situation he has experienced in Rwanda. “My house was recently broken into and my television set and laptop stolen, but with the effort of the hard working police personel, both items were recovered,” said Chima. Gallup’s Law and Order Index gauges people’s sense of personal security in their neighbourhoods and their personal experiences with crime and law enforcement. According to the survey, Singapore topped the international poll with an overall Law and Order Index of 91 percent, ahead of Hong Kong, Norway, Spain and Rwanda in that order. Rwanda and Spain are tied on 85 per cent. Sandrine Uwamahoro, who also received her recovered television set, said Police’s close collaboration with citizens reassures them of their safety and well being. editorial@newties.co.rw
