Residents of Ngoma Sector in Huye District have raised concerns over the rising cases of theft in the area, particularly along the road from Huye town to Ngoma, where groups of young men reportedly ambush passersby during broad daylight to rob them. Some victims have even been physically attacked when they resisted.
Speaking to UKWELI TIMES, locals said they are deeply worried as the frequent thefts have forced many to avoid carrying out daily activities for fear of encountering these groups.
Uwimana Alice, a local resident, recounted being robbed on her way home from work around 2:00 PM. “I was attacked by these thieves who stole my bag containing two phones, a small purse with money, and other belongings. They do not fear anyone, and they strike even in broad daylight. I had no choice but to run, leaving my belongings behind,” she said.
Another resident, Twagirayezu Karemera, described a violent incident where a group of thieves ambushed him and his wife while returning from the market on the road from Kabutare to Ngoma Sector. They stole the beans they had purchased and even cut his wife’s hand when she tried to resist. “These groups carry traditional weapons like machetes and knives. They will attack anyone who resists until they succeed in stealing. My wife is still receiving treatment for her injuries,” he explained.
CIP Hasan Kamanzi, the spokesperson for the Rwanda National Police in the Southern Province, told UKWELI TIMES that security agencies are actively responding to the problem. “We recently arrested four thieves operating in these areas. We urge residents to promptly report any suspicious activities to prevent such crimes,” he said.
He further emphasized that the Rwandan government will not tolerate parents who neglect their duties by sending children to the streets, where some end up participating in criminal activities. “Parents must take responsibility for their children and ensure they attend school instead of becoming involved in theft. Anyone found doing so will be punished,” CIP Kamanzi warned.
Huye District remains one of the Southern Province districts where street youth and school dropouts are commonly involved in begging and theft, highlighting the urgent need for community vigilance and timely reporting of criminal activities.
