Fifty-four people were arrested in Kirwa Village, Nyakabanda II Cell in Nyakabanda Sector, Nyarugenge District where they were holding a traditional wedding ceremony locally known as ‘Gusaba no Gukwa.’
Rwanda National Police (RNP) found the violators at Ubwiza Garden Motel at about 11am, where the traditional ceremony was at the time underway.
Traditional wedding ceremonies are among the prohibited events under the government directives to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The bride Olivier Tuyisenge, 25, and his wife to be, Jeannette Tuyishimire, 24, are among those arrested at the scene.
While speaking to journalists shortly of their arrest, Tuyisenge argued that they were following the tradition.
“Our religious wedding was today at 2pm and we wanted to first respect culture and observe the traditional wedding rites. We were aware that what we were doing is prohibited, may be we through it was going to be a secret ceremony, but I apologize for such inappropriate practices and apologize to our guests,” said Tuyishime.
Damascene Ufiteyezu, the Executive Secretary for Nyakabanda II Cell, said the violators had tried to covertly organize the function.
“The owner of this motel is currently out of the country, and owing to the fact that such functions are still prohibited, no one imagined that those currently overseeing the facility can organize or entertain such an event in the facility,” said Ufiteyezu.
RNP spokesperson, Commissioner of Police (CP) John Bosco Kabera, said the violators were reported by the area residents, who called the Police.
“Area residents called the Police prior to the operation, reporting people, who were gathered at this motel for a traditional wedding ceremony,” CP Kabera said.
He reminded that directives and guidelines must be respected to contain the pandemic, but warned that anyone, who undermines the directives will be arrested.
“Some people are disregarding the directives intentionally because we have said this over and over again that such events or receptions are not allowed.
We can only repeat it; anyone thinking of holding a civil and religious wedding reception or to organize a traditional wedding function, should just abandon the idea; you will be arrested but worse than that, you risk catching or spreading the virus,” said CP Kabera.
The violators were taken to Kigali Stadium in Nyamirambo where they will be educated on the directives and health measures but also handed administrative fines. (End)