Rwanda National Police (RNP) starts this Wednesday, April 19, the rotation of two Formed Police Unit (FPU) contingents serving under the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Central African Republic (MINUSCA).
The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in charge of Operations, Vincent Sano, on Tuesday, April 18, briefed the two contingents set to be deployed, at the General Headquarters at Kacyiru.
Rwanda FPU1-9 contingent of 140 officers under the command of Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Venant Rubayiza, will replace FPU1-8 in Bangui.
Rwanda FPU2-8 of 180 officers commanded by CSP Jean Bosco Rudasingwa will also replace Rwanda FPU2-7 in Kaga Bandoro, more than 300kms from the capital Bangui.
DIGP Sano reiterated the readiness of the contingents and urged them to work with passion, commitment and resilience while upholding Rwandan values and in accordance with the UN principles.
“Based on your policing experience, training, commitment and passion; the leadership of RNP and the country has no doubt, you are up to the task,” DIGP Sano told the officers.
He challenged them to always be more than ready for any urgent peacekeeping mission tasks.
Other Rwandan Police contingents that served in CAR since 2014, DIGP Sano said, they were exceptional and that the same feat is expected of them.
“Think about how you are going as a contingent with one mission; to ensure the safety of the people and their property.
We have high expectations on how you will execute your mandate and come back with the same dignity,” the Deputy Police Chief said.
He added: “When you operate as a team, you succeed together; when one does something wrong, it affects all. Discipline, teamwork, readiness, respect are all key to your mission success.”
DIGP Sano further urged them to relate well and work with other peacekeepers, support the local people in humanitarian and human security activities, and respect diversity.
“The guiding rule is that you are well trained and professional Police officers.
Maintain what you were trained and deployed to do. Represent your country and institution ably.”
He also emphasized force protection and discipline, being innovative, proper handling of equipment, and maintaining sanitation and hygiene.
“You are leaving with high morale; maintain the same spirit throughout your tour-of-duty. We want to see you back home safe, smiling, strong and healthy.”
Rwanda maintains four Police contingents under MINUSCA. Two other contingents; FPU-3 of 180 officers operate in Bangassou, about 725 kms South East of the capital while a Protection Support Unit (PSU) charged with ensuring protection of high profile government and UN officials, operates in Bangui. (End)