Rutsiro residents warned over illegal mining

Rutsiro District Police Commander, Supt. Jean Baptiste Mutabazi has rallied the residents to stand up against activities that undermine the environment especially those related to illegal mining.

The DPC made the remarks early this week during a meeting held in Manihira Sector and drew over 3000 residents.

In his message to the residents, Supt. Mutabazi dwelt most on the ill-effects of illegal mining on the environment, its connection to climate change and also warned them of the health risks that comes with it.

At least three people died and two others were seriously injured in the past four months in Rutsiro, as they were mining illegally in either closed or active concessions.

“Illegal mining destroys landscapes, forests and wildlife habitats at the site of the mine when trees, plants, and topsoil are cleared from the mining area. This in turn leads to soil erosion and destruction of agricultural land not forgetting loss of lives,” Supt. Mutabazi told residents.

He went on to say that; “When rain washes the soil into streams, sediments pollute waterways. This affects water species, cause dis-figuration of river channels and streams, which may lead to flooding.”

“Mining is not something that can be practiced by anyone; it requires skills and knowledge. If it is done wrongly a lot is at risk, that’s why we emphasize on getting a license and take precautions so as to mitigate the risks, and that’s why we urge you to partner with police to prevent such malpractices.”

DPC’s message falls in line with the responsibilities of RNP’s Environmental Protection Unit (EPU) that operates under the Criminal Investigation Department and mandated to protect the environment in all aspects, including air space, forestry and biodiversity, as well as the enforcement of different legal instruments that protect environment.

The unit came into force in 2014 following the 2012 Memorandum of Understanding signed between RNP and Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) to join efforts to preserve the environment while enforcing the organic law on environment.