Rwanda Investigation Bureau’s report claims economic loss of Rwf6bn due to cybercrimes

According to Rwanda Investigation Bureau, the crimes linked to cyber fraud led to gigantic economic losses worth Rwf 6 billion.

The Secretary General of Rwanda Investigation Bureau, Jeannot Ruhunga cited that minimum 113 cases of cybercrimes (were recorded in 2018) of which 64 were committed in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. According to Ruhunga, the cybercrimes that they recorded augmented from 47 cases in 2017 of which 40 were committed in Kigali city leading to Rwf 298 million and, 106, 000 Euros in economic losses to the victims, as reported by The New Times.

“Cybercrimes are committed using technology such as computer, internet, telephone and any other types of information technology. Some criminals will promise you that you have won some sort of cash prize and then ask for your personal identification, mobile money PIN code or a bank account, which information they use to steal your money,” Ruhunga said.

The meeting took place at Kigali Stadium in Nyamirambo. Justice Minister and Attorney General, Johnston Busingye presided the meeting. Rwanda Investigation Bureau’s Secretary General called for vigilance and also urged people to always double check the information they get from such callers. He also insisted the audience to consult with their telecom companies to establish the phone numbers registered under their name.

“There are others who will feed you lies that your family member is in danger and will ask you to send money to support them or may be pay a hospital bill. We have also experienced those who pledge to sell minerals at cheap prices and end up taking your money,” he added.

“These crimes negatively impact the economy and not to mention people’s livelihoods. It also affects the flow of investments to our country, despite the effort being put in to make it more attractive. We, therefore, have to work every hour of the day to make sure such criminals are brought to book,” Johnston Busingye cited.

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