Rwanda National Police in the Eastern Province has arrested five men suspected of being behind a series of thefts targeting shops and individuals in Kayonza and Gatsibo districts. The suspects allegedly stole over Rwf 25 million, more than 600 mobile phones, a laptop, and injured several people in the process.
According to the Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Twizeyimana Hamdun, the suspects were apprehended on May 10, 2025. All five are aged between 19 and 26. The Police stated that they had been monitoring the group for some time due to their involvement in violent thefts, often carried out using traditional weapons such as machetes, pickaxes, and stones.
The suspects are accused of being involved in the following incidents:
- April 24, 2025, in Kiramuruzi Sector (Gatsibo): They allegedly broke into two shops, stole eight phones, a radio, and injured a security guard.
- May 1, 2025, at the MTN Centre: The group reportedly broke the door to gain entry, stole Rwf 8 million in cash, and attempted to take a safe containing Rwf 15 million, which they later abandoned in the street after failing to open it. Two smartphones were also stolen, and both a security guard and a petrol station employee were injured.
- May 3, 2025, in Gahini (Kayonza): They allegedly broke into a business, stole 150 mobile phones and a laptop, injured a community security officer, and threw stones at residents who tried to intervene.
- May 14, 2025, at a shop owned by a man named Hirwa: The group is suspected of stealing 500 mobile phones, Rwf 3 million in cash, and five brand-new wristwatches. A bystander was injured during the incident.
Police say five suspects have been arrested, while a sixth member of the group fled to Uganda. Efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him with support from Ugandan security agencies.
SP Twizeyimana noted that the suspects used disguises, including local security uniforms and face coverings, to conceal their identities.
He stated: “We recovered evidence including stolen phones, money, and the tools they used to commit the crimes. In some cases, a few of them would break into buildings while others waited outside with stones, ready to attack anyone who might raise the alarm.”
Rwanda National Police continues to intensify operations to fight theft and violence across the country. The public is urged to report suspicious activity in time to help prevent such crimes before they happen.
