Rwanda National Police (RNP) intensified operations against use and sell of narcotic drugs led to the seizure of 1100 litres of illicit brew and 40 rolls of cannabis over the weekend in various parts of the country.
Four people were arrested in connection with the act, a day after four others were apprehended over the same crime.
One of the suspect’s, Innocent Hakizimana was arrested in Rambura Sector of Nyabihu District with 40 sachets of cannabis. He is currently held at Jomba Police Station as further investigations are ongoing.
In another case, residents in Ngororero District, Bwira Sector provided credible information that led to the seizure of 200 liters of illicit brew and distilling equipment.
900 other liters of illicit brew were seized in Rutsiro District.
The Western Province Police Spokesperson, Superintendent Emmanuel Hitayezu, said that the successful operation is a fine example of a solid relationship between police and the public through which a better response to overcome drugs and narcotics has been realized.
RNP is focused on working with the community to stop either trade or consumption of illicit brew and reducing the violence associated with drug trafficking and abuse,” he said.
Through Community policing, RNP will effectively lessened the flow of narcotics and put in place stronger mechanisms that involve the public on overcoming this scourge.”
He warned those in the habit of dealing in illicit brew, and urged residents to step up their collaboration with police to protect their communities against such dangerous products.
“Many citizens understand the consequences related to drug abuse and are more determined to fight such. it is important to urge the youth not to connive or shield those who break the law, or trying to join gangs that offer nothing but ruining lives,” he added.
Narcotics and illicit brew are considered toxic and dangerous to those who consume them – and are against article 24 of the law governing narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors in Rwanda.
It states that any drink that exceeds 45 percent of alcohol and any other drink which doesn’t have the required quality for consumption shall be considered as narcotic drugs.
Making, importing or selling narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances attracts a prison sentence between three and five years and a fine between Rwf500, 000 and Rwf5 million, under article 594 of the penal code.
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