The findings were presented on Friday during a joint media briefing by the Rwanda National Police (RNP) and the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) at the RNP Headquarters in Kacyiru. The session aimed to review the security situation and highlight measures being taken as the country enters the festive season.

Inspector General of Police, CG Félix Namuhoranye, said the steady decline in crime is the result of strong coordination between security institutions and the public.

He noted: “Crime levels continue to decrease. Rwanda remains safe, and we must sustain this security, especially during the festive period which is often associated with road accidents, theft, and alcohol-related offenses.”

He added that the end of the year typically comes with large gatherings and events where criminals may take advantage of crowds, as well as increased cases of drunk driving and fraud.

Police emphasized that the anti-drunk-driving campaign known as ‘Tunyweless’ has positively contributed to reducing road accidents. Parents were also urged to closely monitor their children to prevent drug abuse, especially during holidays.

CP George Rumanzi, who heads RNP’s Department of Operations and Public Order, said the force has strengthened proactive measures in crime prevention.

He stated: “The 15.7% decline in crime was achieved through intensified actions against drug trafficking, violence, and theft. We also recovered several stolen items including computers, phones, and money lost through cyber-related crimes.”

The RIB report of 2024 showed a significant decline in criminal cases, including: 23,863 theft cases registered in 2024, down from 31,783 in 2023 – an 8.4% decrease Assault-related cases dropped by 4%, from 22,186 to 21,817 Slight reductions were also recorded in intimidation, destruction of property, and fraud.

In 2025, RNP continued community development initiatives such as building houses for vulnerable families, constructing Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers, and providing boats to communities that rely on water transport.

Security agencies reported that 130 people died in 2025 due to lightning strikes, mine pit collapses, fires, and other incidents. More than 1,800 houses were destroyed and over 1,100 hectares of crops were damaged.

Authorities announced increased deployment of security personnel on highways and in public spaces throughout December.

Citizens were urged to:

• Avoid drunk driving
• Plan their travel early to prevent congestion
• Keep children away from alcohol and drugs
• Prevent fire outbreaks by disconnecting unused electrical appliances

Police encouraged the public to play an active role in safeguarding their neighborhoods and reporting suspicious activities to ensure peaceful celebrations.