With the aim of enhancing security on water bodies in the country, Rwanda National Police Marine Unit has increased patrols to deal with maritime crimes especially smuggling of goods from neighboring countries.
The Marine Unit has also moved to contain maritime accidents through ensuring proper functioning of boats, use of life jackets, and that boats operators are registered in associations and have their boats insured.
Superintendent Eugene Mushaija, of the Marine Police Unit told media, “We hope that these measures will drastically reduce maritime accidents which over the past years have claimed people’s lives.”
Other responsibilities of the unit include recovery of property lost under water, combat trans-border crimes including drug trafficking. It also combats use of illegal fishing nets that cause extinction of some fish species.
According to the police statement, like any other Units, Marine Unit started off with challenges of few staff and insufficient equipment but is now able to conduct operations effectively.
“We have trained our police officers and we continue to do so. They are now equipped with maritime skills that facilitates their work,” said Mushaija.
Through extensive training, police officers are now able to swim long distances to rescue drowning persons, conduct night navigation operations aimed at curbing illegal business on waters.
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