Crime blamed on grassroots leaders

RWAMAGANA – The Eastern Region Police Commander, Chief Supt. Gilbert Gumira, has criticised grassroots leaders for not being vigilant on security, saying their reluctance is a contributor to their failure to curb crimes. The police boss made the remarks at a provincial security meeting in Rwamagana, yesterday. He cited drug abuse, robbery, rape and genocide negation among the crimes which have persisted, forming 72% of the total crimes in the province. “We need new committed local leaders to end the crimes,” he implored. “Most local leaders in sectors drink and sell illicit beer for instance. Others are involved in defilement cases,” he noted, adding that police were ready to step up the crackdown on criminals. According to the official police report, Nyagatare District ranks highest in reported crimes, followed by Rwamagana district. At the meting, Governor, Dr. Ephraim Kabaija warned leaders against office abuse and negligence. He told the Mayors present that one of their major undoing has always been poor communication. “Don’t take leadership issues lightly. Issues to do with embezzling and mismanagement of public funds are on your shoulders. You are the custodians of public money and assets. Anything wrong you are answerable,” Kabaija said. On crime, the Governor urged local leaders to work closely with security organs. “You should not shy away from working with the security institutions, they are part of the society,” he emphasised. Present at the meeting was Major General Fred Ibingira, the commander of 1st Division in charge of Kigali City and Eastern Province. Ends