Niyonsenga was arrested Tuesday, March 9, in Kona Village, Nteko Cell of Mugina Sector with a motorcycle, which was stolen from one Etienne Ndagijimana, 22, a taxi-moto operator.

The Southern region Police spokesperson, Superintendent of Police (SP) Theobald Kanamugire said Mugina Police station received information about motorcycle theft from the victim, on Tuesday evening, which prompted an immediate search.

"Ndagijimana had given his motorcycle to a friend, who parked it outside and entered the house in Kona village but could not find it when he came out of the house.

They immediately called the Police at Mugina station, provided all particulars about the motorcycle; Police worked with local leaders and some residents in the search," SP Kanamugire said.

Later that night, he added, the motorcycle was spotted at about 9pm as the rider headed towards Muhanga District.

"Police and local leaders collaborated to intercept the motorcycle at Mugina - Rugarika junction, which was being ridden by Niyonsenga, who was also taken into custody and the motorcycle recovered," SP Kanamugire said.

The spokesperson commended the residents, who worked with the Police to provide quick information on the whereabouts of the motorcycle and the suspected thief.

According to Niyonsenga, he was going to sell the motorcycle to someone in Muhanga.

Ndagijimana, on his part, thanked the Police, local leaders and residents, who worked together to recover his motorcycle in few hours after it was reported stolen.

Niyonsaba was handed over to Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) at Mugina station.

Under article 166 of the law relating to offences and penalties in general, any person convicted for theft is liable to an imprisonment for a term of not less than one year and not more than two years and a fine of between Rwf1 million and Rwf2 million, a community service for a period of six months or only one of these penalties.