Musanze District registered the highest crime incidences this year, compared to other districts in the Northern Province, according to latest police reports. It recorded 618 cases, followed by Gicumbi District with 424 cases. At least 34 rape cases were registered in the entire province in 2011, with most crimes attributed to alcohol. Other crimes cited include domestic violence, with 310 cases. According to statistics, the province registered 192 road accidents in which 48 people died. The report was presented at a security meeting held in Gicumbi District, which brought together district leaders and security officials in the province. The meeting resolved that district authorities should introduce night patrols to help fight crime. Speaking at the meeting, the Minister of Internal Security, Sheikh Musa Fazil Harelimana, directed local leaders to urgently identify grassroots leaders dealing in illicit brew, ‘kanyanga’. Harelimana gave one month deadline for the districts leaders to compile a report about local authorities implicated in the sale of the banned liquor. “These local leaders playing a role in the consumption of liquor should be exposed. We need the list by the end of January so that we deal with them,” said Harelimana. His warning followed reports that a number of criminal cases registered in 2011were related to the excessive consumption of the brew, and that the fight against the practice was frustrated by some leaders who are involved in the trade. fred.ndoli@newtimes.co.rw
