Gicumbi: Residents alarmed by spike in rooftop break-ins

By The Inspirer.

Residents of Kabagabo Village, located in Gishari Cell of Rutare Sector, Gicumbi District, are raising alarm over a disturbing surge in burglaries. Unlike traditional break-ins, thieves are now entering homes and businesses by cutting through rooftops, stealing valuables with alarming efficiency.

According to testimonies gathered by Imvaho Nshya, these break-ins involve criminals using sharp tools to slice through metal roofing sheets, gaining access to buildings from above — a tactic residents say is new and deeply unsettling.

Leon Mugabo, a local resident, shared his concern: “The situation is escalating. These criminals climb onto rooftops, cut through the metal sheets, and drop inside to loot everything. Just recently, a young woman working with a bank who also runs a shop, a businessman named Bizimana, another shop owner named Rucien, and a nearby bar were all targeted by thieves using this method.”

Despite community reports and calls for help, Mugabo noted that few arrests have been made. “We report every incident, and security patrols respond, but the thieves often escape. We need more effective security measures and stricter punishment to deter these crimes,” he said.

Another resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the break-ins as a growing menace. “These criminals are becoming more brazen. They enter through the roof — it’s clearly a new technique. Here in Rutare, it’s starting to feel normal. We need decisive action and strict penalties for those caught.”

Clementine Muragijimana, who lives in Marembo Village in Bikumba Cell, recounted how thieves recently broke into her husband’s phone shop using the same rooftop entry method. “They tore through the roof and stole a bag filled with mobile phones and cash,” she said. “The total loss was over 3 million Rwandan francs. We need stronger security systems, not just guards.”

In response to the incidents, Theogene Bayingana, Executive Secretary of Rutare Sector, confirmed that a suspect linked to the burglaries had been apprehended in Kigali. The individual was found in possession of a bag containing stolen phones, believed to belong to a merchant from Rutare.

“Yes, there were several cases of rooftop break-ins recently, but thanks to collaboration with security agencies and swift information sharing, the primary suspect has been arrested. Since then, we haven’t seen more incidents of this kind,” Bayingana stated.

He added that the suspect was caught with the stolen items and that local authorities are working with security forces to have him transferred to Rutare for prosecution and restitution. “We’re pushing for justice and for the suspect to be held accountable for damages,” he said.

Bayingana also outlined several steps the sector has taken to enhance security in the area, particularly in Rutare’s commercial hub. “We partnered with a private security company, held meetings to address gaps in service, and advised them on better staff supervision,” he said.

For businesses and residents alike, local leaders have urged the installation of additional lighting around homes and shops. “We’ve asked business owners to improve interior and exterior lighting and encouraged residents to light up their surroundings,” Bayingana noted.

He concluded by stating that bar owners operating past legal hours had also been warned and are now expected to close on time to support broader safety efforts in the sector.