On Thursday, June 12, 2025, Dr. Murangira Thierry, the spokesperson for Rwanda Investigative Bureau (RIB), delivered an impactful speech during the 'Meet Me Tonight' segment of the Gen-Z Comedy event held at Camp Kigali. He shed light on RIB's role in curbing criminal activities and emphasized the institution's strategies for prevention. His insights focused on addressing the crimes prevalent among youth and how behavioral changes can be fostered through initiatives from institutions like the Rwanda Forensic Institute.
When asked about emerging trends in youth-related crimes, Murangira stated: “Let’s be honest, there’s no single crime that the youth aren’t involved in.” He continued with emphasis, “Everything! Except crimes within married couples, but even for those, the youth aren’t completely excluded.”
Dr. Murangira went on to highlight crimes often involving youth such as assault, substance abuse, and the sharing of inappropriate content. He also explained that forensic tests are sometimes employed to investigate the motivations behind such actions. A significant issue he raised was the dissemination of explicit materials, warning young individuals: “Whatever you do, remember it has consequences.”
Addressing social media-based crimes and human trafficking, Murangira revealed how deception plays a big role in leading victims into danger. “People are lured with promises of good jobs, quality education, or even romantic partners,” he noted, cautioning, “If you’re not careful, you might end up trafficked.”
Another concern was sexual abuse involving minors, including cases where adolescent girls assault younger boys. Murangira clarified, “The law defines a child as any individual under 18, regardless of gender.” He urged youths to avoid sharing intimate content as relationships ending on bad terms could lead to severe repercussions. Internet scams and behaviors that compromise core values in some young people were also key points in his speech.
Murangira expressed concerns over excessive drinking among youth and inappropriate behavior during house parties, saying, “These gatherings often lead to harmful conduct.”
On the misuse of social media, he underscored the accountability of individuals: “Social media is not an island. Don’t fool yourself into thinking it’s solely your platform. Yes, it’s your page, but it’s accessible to everyone.”
Dr. Murangira also addressed the organizers of Gen-Z Comedy, urging them to set ethical standards for participants. He stated, “If the organizers aspire to grow the platform further, they need to eliminate practices that contradict ethical norms.” He further added, “It doesn’t make sense for someone invited to Gen-Z Comedy to entertain the audience, only to later appear in scandals involving public fights or indecent behavior.”
He reminded the organizers of their responsibility, stressing: “When you sit here, you’re a star. People look up to you.” Murangira advised them to avoid inviting individuals who engage in unethical actions, emphasizing the importance of value-driven roles.
“If someone is involved in criminal behavior, they shouldn’t be invited. If they lack proper values and spend their time in disreputable actions, then this platform isn’t for them.”
He concluded his speech with a metaphor: “If you want to be lions, you must part ways with mice.”
Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, spokesperson for RIB, highlights youth involvement in various crimes.
Dr. Murangira urged the youth to steer clear of crimes, demonstrating that change is possible with commitment.
Dr. Murangira encouraged Gen-Z Comedy organizers to establish ethical standards to exclude participants engaged in inappropriate behavior.