ACP Theos Badege
Police have appreciated Rwandans’ outstanding compliance with the law that resulted in a peaceful Christmas celebrations and called residents to cooperate with security officers to ensure the holidays are enjoyable and incident free.
Rwanda National Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Theos Badege said in a communiqué that Eve of Christmas and Christmas Day celebrations were generally peaceful both in communities and on roads.
Badege said that although there was more excitement on Christmas, people displayed outstanding compliance with the law and road safety following Police’s “safety and enjoying responsibly” campaign during the celebrations.
“These joyous moments, if not controlled can also result into dangers; we used various communication platforms including social media and telecommunications messages reminding people on safety first and to enjoy responsibly minding the beliefs and peace of other people, which is paying off,” ACP Badege said.
“The celebrations are so far peaceful across the country that we have not registered any major incidents. We take this opportunity to thank citizens for the responsible conduct and partnership in all aspects of safety and security they continue to display,” added the police spokesman.
The RNP spokesperson urged the public to “keep the good collaborative efforts” to ensure incident-free festivities as “Security begins with an individual,” he said.
Police stressed motorists not to take risks such as drink driving, driving without a seatbelt, ignoring speed limits, or driving while using a mobile phone. They said these are all bad decisions that lead to fatalities and serious injuries.
The general public was called to take safety precautions in their homes and not leaving anything to chance as they leave to enjoy the festivities especially at night as wrongdoers may be around waiting to take advantage.
In this time of celebration, fun and catching up with family and friends, the Police further appeals to organisers of entertainment activities like music concerts, churches, bars and night spots or other people holding celebrations to refrain from loud noise that could obstruct others.
