The electronics, which also include television sets, radios, modem, flash disks, decoders, routers, electric cables and power banks, were seized in the last two years.
The public destruction was witnessed by officials from Rwanda National Police (RNP), Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA) and Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB).
The RNP spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, said that the electronics were seized in operations conducted over the past two years, during the enforcement of the regulations governing used electronics and electronic equipment.
"During the enforcement of the regulation, it was observed that some electronics on the market were substandard, some dealers in second-hand electronics had no source of origin while other electronics had been stolen. Those that were stolen were returned to the rightful owners," ACP Rutikanga said.
The regulation governs, among others, consumer electronics, office, IT and telecommunication equipment, refrigerator equipment, large and small household appliances, lighting fixtures and lamps, sports and leisure appliances, and toys.
It provides that for one to trade in used electrical and electronic equipment, they must apply for a license issued by RICA, which is valid for two year renewal.
Before buying, business operators are required to ensure that used electrical and electronic equipment meets the safety requirements of the standards IEC 60950-1; and to record the description of the equipment bought and sold.
The records should indicate the category, brand and model name, model number, serial number, information relating to International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) and International Mobile Equipment Identity Software Version (IMEI-SV) per slot where applicable; any other distinguished marks or features, where applicable and equipment status description.
Before buying second-hand electronics, the business operator must first verify that the seller is the rightful owner of the equipment and record detailed particulars.
"We advise dealers in second-hand electronics and electronic equipment to follow the regulation to avoid buying and selling substandard and stolen items, which also leads to either imprisonment or heavy fines," ACP Rutikanga said.
He warned that operations are continuous to impound all items that do not meet the required standards, and to penalize the violators.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/500kgs-of-assorted-substandard-electronics-disposed-of
