Twenty-one People who were found worshiping together in Nyakariba marshland contrary to the directives against Covid-19 spread.
At least 24 people were on Monday, July 26, arrested in separate operations conducted in City of Kigali for violating government directives on preventing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
They include 21 people found at about 4am congregating in Nyakariba valley in Musezero Cell, Gisozi Sector, Gasabo District.
Two other taxi-moto operators were transporting passengers while another driver was using a movement permit contrary to its original intended purpose.
The group of believers belonging to ADEPR church, was showed to the media at the Independent University of Kigali (ULK) stadium in Gisozi Sector, Gasabo District.
Emmanuel Uhagaze, 41, one of the worshippers, who hails from Gasharu village, Musezero cell, admitted that they violated the government directives and asked for forgiveness.
“I woke up early in the morning and went to the valley to pray but I did not know that I would meet other people there. People started coming one by one and the number increased to more than 20,” Uhagaze said.
The worshippers were subjected to Covid test at their cost as well as related administrative fines.
Meanwhile, one Jean Pierre Mutabazi working with REG, was arrested driving to Gicumbi District using a movement permit issued to him to travel to Shangwe in Bugesera District for electric installation at Bugesera airport.
The other two taxi-moto operators arrested transporting passengers in Kigali are Floduard Niyibizi and Uzziel Habaguhirwa.
Motos are not allowed to transport passengers while gatherings are prohibited, and so are unnecessary movements.
The City of Kigali along with eight other district of the country are currently under lockdown with movements only allowed for medical, shopping or other essential and emergency activities.
RNP spokesperson, CP John Bosco Kabera said the worshippers were arrested due to the information provided by concerned local residents.
“It has been repeatedly explained that gatherings for religious services are prohibited. Some of these worshippers have been caught in related violations before and educated on the directives, but they learnt nothings. These behaviours will not be tolerated,” CP Kabera warned.
He added: “Drivers and motorcyclists must adhere to the directives without exception. If you are not very sure ask first so as not to flaut the directives. The same goes with the issued movement permit, which should strictly be used for the original purpose.”
CP Kabera warned that operations will continue to arrest anyone engaging in practices that derail the national efforts against the Covid-19 pandemic.(End)