Police operating in the City of Kigali on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, recovered stolen goods and returned them to a trader identified as Susan Asiimwe, who operates in Nyarugenge Market.
The stolen items included 10 sacks of rice and 30 cartons of cooking oil, valued at over RWF 1.3 million.
The theft occurred on March 27, 2026, when suspects deceived an employee by claiming they had made a bank payment and presenting a fake payment confirmation, leading to the release of the goods.
After realizing that the money had not been deposited into her account, Asiimwe quickly reported the case to police at Nyarugenge station.
Following investigations, one suspect was arrested in possession of 23 cartons of cooking oil and six sacks of rice, while the rest had already been sold. The suspect is currently in custody, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend accomplices.
The Police spokesperson in the City of Kigali, CIP Wellars Gahonzire, urged traders to remain vigilant, especially when dealing with customers who claim to have paid electronically.
He warned that some criminals use fake payment messages and forged receipts to steal goods.
He further encouraged traders to always verify payment confirmations and carefully check transaction details before releasing goods.
Residents were also reminded to promptly report theft cases, as police often recover stolen property but may fail to return it if owners have not filed complaints.
Additionally, the public is advised to record serial numbers of their valuables—especially electronic devices—to help prove ownership if items are recovered.
Police warned individuals involved in theft to abandon such behavior and seek lawful means of livelihood, emphasizing that there is no safe haven for criminals in the country. Theft, they stressed, does not lead to prosperity but ultimately results in consequences.
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