Rwanda National Police has arrested seven men suspected of stealing electricity and water infrastructure in Nyarugunga and Gahanga sectors of Kicukiro District, recovering more than 90 kilogrammes of electricity cables and 13 water meters.
The suspects were arrested on November 8, 2026, following allegations that they had been stealing underground electricity cables and removing water meters from residents’ homes.
In Nyarugunga Sector, Kamashashi Cell, Umucyo Village, near the ongoing Kanombe Road expansion works, five men were arrested on suspicion of stealing metal materials weighing 15 kilogrammes, allegedly intending to sell them as scrap metal.
Police said the five suspects are being held at Nyarugunga Police Station as investigations continue before their case is forwarded to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) for prosecution over the destruction of infrastructure.
The other two suspects were arrested in Gahanga Sector, Murinja Cell, Runyoni Village, where they were found in possession of more than 70 kilogrammes of stolen electricity cables and 13 water meters believed to have been taken from residents’ homes.
They are being detained at Gahanga Police Station and are also facing allegations of damaging electricity and water infrastructure.
Rwanda National Police has warned the public against stealing or damaging electricity and water infrastructure, saying such acts undermine national development and disrupt residents’ welfare.
Police urged residents to continue reporting individuals suspected of stealing electricity cables, whether underground or overhead, to help ensure their arrest.
It also warned traders against purchasing stolen electricity cables, stressing that buying such materials encourages theft and that those involved could face legal consequences just like the perpetrators.
