In Nyarugenge District, the Rwanda National Police arrested a 38-year-old man suspected of stealing a TVS motorcycle and changing its license plate.
The suspect, a mechanic, was arrested at his home in Kigabiro Village, Kamuhoza Cell, Kimisagara Sector in Nyarugenge District, on the evening of Tuesday, September 17.
Kigali City Police Spokesperson, Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Wellars Gahonzire, said that the arrest was made thanks to the cooperation between the police and other security agencies, following a tip-off from local residents.
He stated, “The motorcycle was stolen on September 13. After the owner reported the theft, an investigation began to locate the motorcycle. It was found at the home of the mechanic. When the police inspected the bike, they found that it matched the stolen one, but the license plate had been changed.”
He added, “When asked where he got the motorcycle and the new license plate, the suspect couldn’t provide a clear explanation. He was immediately arrested and handed over to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), and the stolen motorcycle was returned to its owner.”
CIP Gahonzire thanked the community for providing information that led to the arrest and reminded motorcycle owners to park their bikes in secure places. He also urged them to report thefts immediately.
He warned those who steal or alter vehicle license plates to stop such practices, as the search for them will continue. He assured that, with the help of other agencies and the public, they will be caught and brought to justice.
According to Law No. 68/2018 of 30/08/2018 on offenses and penalties, Article 166 states that anyone convicted of theft can face imprisonment of at least one year but not more than two years. Additionally, they may face a fine of between one million (1,000,000 RWF) and two million Rwandan Francs (2,000,000 RWF), or six months of community service, or a combination of these penalties.
Article 276 of the same law states that anyone who, through deceit, registers false information or makes false declarations is guilty of forgery. If convicted, they can face imprisonment of at least five years but not more than seven years, and a fine of between three million (3,000,000 RWF) and five million Rwandan Francs (5,000,000 RWF), or one of these penalties.
