SOUTHERN PROVINCE MUHANGA — Police in the Nyamabuye Sector on Friday night blocked youth from attending their end of holiday party. The concert, dubbed ‘Bye-Bye Vacance’, was scheduled to take place at Delta Club and was organised by the Just Family-a youth artists group from Kigali and Muhanga district. Police personnel stormed the venue at about 10 pm, to stop the show, moments before it kicked off, arguing that it had attracted many minors. Most of the adolescent revellers scattered as police ordered those below 18 years of age to leave, immediately. In the ensuing scuffle, some youths were arrested for allegedly resisting the move and provoking police; while others who scampered in disarray could be seen stranded on the roadside in the cold, pondering their next move. Kim Kizito, the chief organiser of the show, could not be reached for a comment, but other artists described the incident as disappointing and a disgrace to youth’s values. “Youths need such events because of their age, this is a great value that no one can deny them,” one artist said. Police officers however, stated that the security of minors was important and their action was within the law and in the interests of national security. However, the organisers insisted that the show was meant for youths. Similar incidences have happened in the past at the same club and residents have expressed dissatisfaction with police actions. Ends
