Kabale district authorities were on high alert as police arrested Shimark Alfonse, a Rwandan national, in the act of attempting to vandalize solar panels in Kabale municipality. The apprehension was made possible through a coordinated effort by law enforcement officers patrolling the area.
According to ASP Elly Maate, the Kigezi region police spokesperson, Alfonse was caught red-handed atop a solar panel installation along NSSF Makanga road in Central Division, Kabale municipality, during the early hours of April 10, 2024. Maate disclosed that vigilant witnesses noticed two individuals atop the solar panel, but while one managed to evade capture, Alfonse was successfully apprehended.
“This incident occurred around 5 am, and our officers swiftly responded to the scene, managing to thwart the attempted theft,” Maate stated. He assured the public of ongoing efforts to combat such crimes, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in maintaining security.
Maate further conveyed the police department’s commitment to gathering comprehensive information on Alfonse’s associates to ensure their apprehension and subsequent prosecution. He urged residents to report any suspicious activities promptly, reiterating the police’s dedication to safeguarding public and private property.
The attempted vandalism serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in securing renewable energy infrastructure against theft and damage. Authorities continue to reinforce measures to protect such critical assets, underscoring the significance of renewable energy in the region’s sustainable development efforts.
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