Illicit brew including 14 cartons of a banned imported gin called Zebra Gin and 20 liters of Kanyanga (locally made liquor) were confiscated in Nyagatare, as Police continues its operations against narcotic drugs.
The Zebra gin was confiscated when a motorcycle was stopped by traffic officers in Rukomo Sector, although the cyclist fled leaving the cartons and motorcycle; while the Kanyanga was confiscated from a man identified as Stanislas Hakizimana in Matimba sector.
Both incidents occurred on March 11; Hakizimana is currently held at Matimba Police Station, while Police is carrying out investigations to apprehend the second suspect.
Inspector of Police Emmanuel Kayigi, police spokesperson of the Eastern region, warned against production, smuggling and consumption of illicit brew and called on citizens to engage in legitimate income generating activities rather than indulging in criminal ones.
“We have made repetitive appeals to the community to enhance partnership through community policing so as to fight crimes that might affect their daily activities, thus hindering national development,” he said.
“However some people do not listen to the call and continue to engage in this. Police will continue to carry out operations and protect the community against such dangerous products at the same time implementing the law.”
He also lauded the partnership between the public and security organs through the sharing of information that helped in arresting dealers.
Rwanda National Police has conducted several campaigns against this crime, which has led to the arrest of many dealers.
Article 594 stipulates that any person who, unlawfully, makes, imports, or sells narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances shall be liable to a term of imprisonment of three to five years and a fine of five between Rwf0.5 million and Rwf5 million.