Rwandan authorities have arrested ten people suspected of stealing cement from a truck that crashed on the outskirts of Kigali, renewing concerns about the growing tendency of some individuals to loot accident scenes instead of helping victims.
The incident occurred in the early hours of May 28, 2026, when a SINO TRUCK carrying 700 bags of cement from Northern Province to Kigali lost control in Rutagara I Village, Nzove Cell, Kanyinya Sector.
According to preliminary information, the driver failed to negotiate a section of the road, causing the truck to veer off and crash. He sustained serious injuries and was immediately transported to CHUK Hospital for medical treatment.
While emergency assistance was being organized, some residents reportedly rushed to the crash site and began taking bags of cement from the damaged truck. Witnesses indicated that part of the stolen cement was later offered for sale.
Police officials responded shortly after receiving reports of the incident and launched an operation to recover the stolen property and identify those involved.
Kigali Police spokesperson CIP Wellars Gahonzire confirmed that ten suspects had been arrested and that a significant quantity of the stolen cement had already been recovered.
He stated: “In the operations to apprehend those thieves and recover the stolen cement, 84 bags of cement have so far been recovered. Ten suspects have been arrested and are currently detained at the Kanyinya Police Station; the investigation and operations to apprehend others are ongoing. Case files are being prepared for those already arrested so they can be handed over to RIB [Rwanda Investigation Bureau].”
Authorities said investigations remain ongoing and additional arrests could follow as efforts continue to trace all individuals linked to the theft.
Police emphasized that looting accident scenes not only constitutes a criminal offense but also undermines emergency response efforts by diverting attention away from injured victims who may require urgent assistance.
“Citizens are reminded to uphold the Rwandan culture of coming to the aid of those in distress,” Gahonzire added while urging citizens to uphold the spirit of solidarity and rescue.
The force also warned criminal groups known for targeting cargo trucks, particularly on steep roads where vehicles slow down, saying such activities are under surveillance and those involved will be prosecuted.
Police concluded by reminding the public that accident scenes should be places of rescue and compassion rather than opportunities for theft, stressing that saving lives must always come before personal gain.
As the police warning stated, “Theft does not enrich you; instead, it ruins you.”
