Uganda and Rwanda double efforts in combating cross border crimes

Uganda's security Minister Muruli Mukasa makes an observation during CSP Kabera presentation (RNP Media Center)

A two day governance and boarder security meeting involving Rwanda and Uganda concluded yesterday with both countries committing to put more effort in combating cross border crimes.

The meeting marked the fourth time the two East African member states meet to discuss governance and cross border security issues.

In his presentation Chief Superintendent Elias Kabera, the director of international cooperation at Rwanda National Police highlighted drug trafficking, human trafficking, insurgency and terrorism as the main cross border crimes that pose a threat to the security of both countries.

CSP Kabera however noted that human organ trafficking was rarely taken into account yet it is a lucrative business that criminals have ventured into.

Regarding drug trafficking CSP Kabera pointed out that drugs were smuggled into the country through four border crossings namely Rubavu, Rusizi, Nyagatare and Kirehe.

Criminal Investigation statistics indicate that more than 2.5 tones of Cannabis worth Frw 199 million have been impounded and 2402 people involved arrested.

CSP Kabera also told participants that so far 13 children have been registered by CID as victims of human trafficking.

Senior Police and Military Officers during the meeting (photo:RNP Media Center)

“There should be joint collaboration, trainings and information exchange to provide an opportunity for fast tracking cross boarder crimes and criminals,” Kabera said.

Participants at the meeting noted the need to enhance development at border communities. They also noted the importance of trainings and joint operations.

Representatives of both countries also realized the importance of strengthening cooperation to curb transnational boarder crimes.

At the end of the meeting participants resolved to combat cross border crimes through regular meetings between Police and military chief operating along borders and involve.

They also agreed that both Uganda and Rwanda Police forces design a sensitization manual that will facilitate local leaders to understand cross border crimes and be able to combat them.

The high level meeting attracted several ministers from both countries including James Musoni, the minister of local government and his Ugandan counterpart Adolf Twesigye, Internal Security minister Musa Fazil Harelimana and his counterpart Mururi Mukasa.

Present also were senior government officials from both countries as well as senior military and police officials.