Released Asian man re-arrested

KIGALI - An Asian man of Indian origin who was released last Saturday after nine days in detention for issuing bounced cheques, has been re-arrested, The New Times has learnt. Naval N. Mrdul was arrested yesterday afternoon shortly after clearing part of the debts. Augustin Nkusi, the National Public Prosecution Authority (NPPA) spokesperson confirmed the arrest when contacted.“He was arrested for issuing bouncing cheques which is a criminal offence and secondly, he has not cleared all the debts,” Nkusi said. Mrdul, who was previous released under unclear circumstances, is accused of issuing bouncing cheques to Gasarabwe Petroleum (Rwf 6m) his former employer, Sky hotel (Rwf 3m) and Salt and Pepper restaurant (Rwf 2,185,000). “His offences are unbearable and there is no patience. It is not an offence he committed to one partner, but to more than two people. It seems he had made it a profession and there is no favour for such people.” Nkusi said. His arrest came shortly after clearing the Sky hotel and Salt and Pepper restaurant debts, the two places where he was accommodated and took his meals respectively while working at Gasarabwe petroleum as a marketing executive. Mrdul who entered Rwanda two years ago from Uganda is said to be also wanted by the country’s Interpol for different crimes he allegedly committed during his stay there. He is partly alleged to have also issued bounced cheques to various people in Uganda amounting to Ushs40m. Mrdul who is yet to appear in court to answer charges against him, could face a sentence ranging between two and five years if convicted. Ends