Rwanda National Police (RNP) apprehended four individuals in Rubavu District on Wednesday, April 23, on suspicion of producing and distributing counterfeit US dollars. The arrests occurred in Murambi Village, Buhaza Sector, Rubavu District, and the police confiscated equipment reportedly used in the counterfeiting process. The suspects include one national from the DR Congo and three Rwandans, all suspected to be involved in the production and circulation of fake currency, said Superintendent of Police Bonaventure Twizere Karekezi, the Police Spokesperson for Western Province. The operation was conducted based on information received from the public, leading to the arrest of the suspects who were found in possession of $4,000 in counterfeit dollars, 850 sheets of paper intended for producing fake bills, and a quarter kilogram of powder used in the criminal activity, Karekezi told The New Times. Karekezi noted that the suspects are currently detained at the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) at Gisenyi Police Station for further investigation. We reiterate our call to everyone to be proactive in reporting any suspected fraudulent activities, particularly those involving counterfeit money, as it poses a significant threat to our national economy. We also strongly advise anyone who has been deceived into participating in such activities to cease immediately, as it constitutes a serious crime with severe legal and economic repercussions for both individuals and the nation, he warned. The suspects face five to seven years of imprisonment. However, if the offense has been committed at the international level, the penalty is imprisonment for seven to 10 years and a fine of Rwf7-10 million.
