Rwanda National Police has increased the number of officers deployed on roads during the festive season to curb drunk driving and other risky behaviour, particularly in Kigali and on major highways linking the capital to the provinces. During an interview with The New Times, Police spokesperson in the City of Kigali CIP Wellars Gahonzire warned that the festive period often comes with a rise in excessive alcohol consumption, which in turn increases the risk of road accidents, but warned that the preventative measures are in place. ALSO READ: Police chief warns against drunk driving in Rubavu “The festive season is not a time to overdrink,” Gahonzire said, noting that police frequently observe people drinking excessively, including on the roadside and even inside vehicles. He cautioned that alcohol consumption by passengers can distract or lure drivers into drinking, exposing everyone to risks. He also urged bar operators to stop serving alcohol to visibly drunk customers, citing a recent case where a person reportedly collapsed and died after being served more drinks while already intoxicated. ALSO READ: Motorcyclists cautioned against drunk driving after 860 incidents in six months According to Gahonzire, police patrols have been reinforced on Kigali’s main roads as well as highways connecting the city to other parts of the country, while additional officers have also been deployed in secondary cities. “There is a belief that because there are many officers in Kigali, people can escape enforcement elsewhere. That is not true. You will be caught wherever you are,” he said calling for individual responsibility by everyone. He warned that traffic offences during the festive season could lead to serious consequences, including imprisonment. ALSO READ: Police outlines measures for safe festive season “It would be unfortunate to end up spending your festive season in prison instead of celebrating with your family and friends,” he added. Gahonzire also cautioned motorcycle taxi users against carrying bulky goods while shopping for the holidays, saying motorcycles are meant to transport people, not large cargo that could endanger lives. “Small items can be carried in a small bag, but loading large packages on a motorcycle is dangerous,” he said, adding that carrying a child as a second passenger is equally risky since the third person is not insured. Beyond road safety, police also called for respect for public order, particularly regarding noise pollution. Gahonzire urged churches, bars and people hosting home parties to respect their neighbours, even during extended operating hours. “Many home parties start peacefully but later turn noisy. That should be avoided. If not, those responsible will be dealt with,” he warned. He further cautioned that anyone who resists or attacks security personnel during inspections will face tougher penalties. “We have seen cases where, during inspections, premises close the main entrance while people slip out through other exits,” he said, stressing that such behaviour will not be tolerated. Bars should only admit the number of customers they are authorised to accommodate. “If your capacity is 100 people, you should not receive 300 simply because numbers have increased,” he warned. Even though the festive season may present risks, preventive measures help to contain them and prevent any increase, Gahonzire noted.
