The warning comes after Rwandan security forces on patrol intercepted last Friday, a suspected smuggler on a motorcycle in Tabagwe Sector, Nyagatare, who had crossed the border from Uganda at an ungazetted border point.
The suspect resisted arrest and turned violent, and was joined by others who attacked the officers with machetes while attempting to flee back to Uganda.
The officers shot two people, one Rwandan who died instantly and one Ugandan who later died.
The deceased left behind a motorcycle (RE736G) laden with smuggled used clothes (caguwa).
Following the incident, Governor Mfulukye has held a meeting with residents and motorcyclists this Monday urging them against such acts.
“Our security is guaranteed and we are aware that you play a role to make it possible. We however need to advance measures to preserve security. You should stop crossing to Uganda through illegal entry points. Some people doing so are seized on accusation of being spies while others smuggle drugs, goods and confront security officials intercepting them. Such vices should not characterize us,” he said.
Governor Mfulukye asked them to abandon illegal trade crossing through unauthorized points and report those declining to respect the law.
Col. Albert Rugambwa, the Brigade commander in Rwamagana, Kayonza, Gatsibo and Nyagatare districts has requested residents to work together to combat smuggling and report lawbreakers on time.
The president of the association of motorcyclists in Nyagatare district, Leonard Ntare said they are going to work closely with local leaders to deal with smugglers.
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