Terrorist had more accomplices, being pursued with Interpol—RNP

{Rwanda National Police (RNP) held a press conference yesterday at General Headquarters in Kacyiru, to update on the recent terrorist case, in which a suspect, Muhammad Mugemangango was shot dead as he attempted to escape, after jumping off the police vehicle.}

The press conference was chaired by ACP Theos Badege, Commissioner for CID alongside ACP Denis Basabose, commissioner for Counter terrorism department and Police Spokesperson, ACP Celestin Twahirwa.

Below is a full statement of the media brief.

On 24th Jan 2016, a Terrorist suspect, Mugemangango Muhammad was fatally shot by Police when he jumped off the police vehicle in what the police now believe was a suicidal escape attempt. He was on his way back from his residence in Kimironko, where he had led police for search. The suspect had been detained at Kanombe police station.

Mugemangango, 39 years, was an inspector in Rwanda Education Board and deputy Imam of Kimironko mosque in Kigali. He had been arrested following information from the public about a terror network he was actively involved with, and recruiting for ISIS.

The information and evidence obtained after the arrest of Mugemangango, led to the identification and arrest of several other suspects in connection with the terrorist network. The evidence gathered so far include mobilization and jihadist preaching materials, like books, CDs and social network messages.

Interviews and interrogations conducted revealed that Mugemangango and the jihadist group’s immediate aim was mobilization, recruitment and facilitating those radicalized to join ISIS other than attacks on Rwanda. The group is part of the network operating in the region and beyond.

The suspects against whom the Police have obtained credible evidence will be processed and forwarded to the prosecution in accordance with the law. Those against whom there is no credible evidence will be soon released.

Information available revealed that some of the suspects are beyond the Country’s borders, on the run. The RNP in collaboration with Interpol and police institutions in the region will track them and bring them to justice.

RNP is thankful to the public for the valuable information that facilitated security organs to detect, arrest and dismantle the terrorist network at an early stage.

RNP reassures the general public that there is no threat to safety and security that has prevails in the Country. The existing cooperation between security organs and the public remains the foundation for homeland security.

RNP appeals for vigilance, denunciation of radicalization, timely information sharing and continued partnership.