President Paul Kagame asked the new Secretary General of Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Col Pacifique Kayigamba Kabanda, to focus on strengthening the institution’s capacity to fight cross-border and economic criminal activities as well as cybercrimes. The head of state said this after Kabanda had taken his oath of office in a ceremony held at Urugwiro Village on Friday, March 28. ALSO READ: Who is new RIB boss Kayigamba Kabanda? Kagame said he was confident that Kabanda, who was appointed on Wednesday, had ability to lead the investigations body effectively. “It has been eight years since RIB was established and the institution has taken a significant step in criminal investigations and has become a strong pillar of security in our country,” Kagame said. The President also addressed the growing challenge that RIB faces in combating cross-border criminal activities and economic and financial crimes. ALSO READ: Cabinet names new RIB Secretary General, other parastatal heads “There is an increase in economic crimes, including investment fraud and other deceptive activities designed to rob people's wealth,” Kagame said. “These crimes negatively affect unsuspecting citizens and put their safety and well-being at risk. We have to use all possible means to combat these dynamics and continue to build our capacities in criminal investigations through research and adoption of new technologies in evidence collection, including artificial intelligence” ALSO READ: RIB explains how fraudsters impersonate investigators The President emphasised the importance of working closely with other institutions to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and accurately. “Integrity should be the cornerstone of all our activities. Rwandans deserve institutions that not only fulfill the duties but also earn their trust,” Kagame said. “There should be no room for weaknesses, inappropriate behaviour or disorderly operations. Professionals should not tolerate these vices. Our responsibility is to ensure that every citizen lives their life trusting they are safe, as they should be,” he said. Kagame said wished the new RIB Secretary General success in his work. Kabanda, 59, who replaced Col (Rtd) Jeannot Ruhunga, becomes the second to head the institution that was established in 2018. Before his new appointment, Kabanda was the Chief Prosecutor of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). He has been a military prosecutor for 30 years.
