The statement by UNHCR also calls Rwandan Authorities to avoid tensions that could lead to further loss of life.
The call follows Wednesday death of one refugee who succumbed to injuries due to confrontation with Police Officers.
UNHCR says that Police patrols are reportedly facing provocations by refugees and calls for clarification.
UNHCR’s Country Representative, Ahmed Baba Fall said that during confrontations, one refugee was injured and died upon arrival at Kibuye Hospital. He said that the circumstances surrounding the incident are to be clarified.
“UNHCR is deeply saddened and concerned by this tragedy and share its empathy with the family and other members of the refugee community,” says Ahmed.
“UNHCR urged at several occasions the refugees to respect local laws and express grievances through dialogue, while calling on authorities to handle the situation with calm and restraint” he says.
UNHCR says that on April 20th, UNHCR was made aware of the deployment of a large number of Police officers in and around Kiziba camp.
The Ministry of Disaster Management and Refugee Affairs (MIDIMAR) informed UNCHR that the increase in the number of police officers is due to the rise of tensions in the camp and they are there to ensure security and safety of refugees, staff and host communities
MIDIMAR reiterated that there is no operation and that the Government of Rwanda will continue to promote the rule of law, law enforcement and justice for all.
The statement says that UNHCR recognizes that the RNP has the right to patrol on all the territory of Rwanda and is calling upon the refugees to stay calm.
As the demonstrations started in February, where refugees were claiming insufficient food rations and being denied other rights, UNHCR says that is advocating with donors to address the gaps in humanitarian funding and urgent needs of refugees.
To date, UNHCR’s 2018 appeal for USD 98.8 million to support refugees in Rwanda is only funded at 13%.
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