Four suspects including a woman have been arrested in connection with dealing in narcotics and banned illicit crude gin considered dangerous to the health of consumers.
The suspects were apprehended separately on July 1 in Rwanda National Police (RNP) operations aimed at combating the flow and abuse of drugs in the country.
Among the suspects included Maombe Musabyimana 25, a resident of Kirehe District, Gatore Sector who was caught in possession of 80kg of cannabis – and is held at Musaza Police Station as further investigations commence.
In Nyagatare District, Rwampesha Sector, a woman identified as Anita Uwajeneza, 30, was arrested with 20 liters of Kanyanga and is currently held at Karangazi Police Station.
The two other suspects are Potien Habihirwe, 36 of Gatsibo and Cornelia Horugaba, 26 of Nyagatare, who were arrested with 250 rolls of cannabis and 65 liters of Kanyanga respectively.
Police Spokesperson for the Eastern Province, Inspector of Police Emmanuel Kayigi, noted that the anti-narcotics operations are successful countrywide due to the good partnership between RNP and the public, through which credible and timely information on suspects is shared.
“Residents often contact police regarding suspects – and this is very helpful during investigations. We are focused on working with the community to stop the trade and consumption of illicit brew and ultimately reduce the violence associated with drug trafficking and abuse,” IP Kayigi said.
He also said that RNP is much involved in providing good quality drug education and advice to communities and the youth in particular aimed at building a proactive resistance against narcotics in communities and in schools.
“Responsible members of society and local authorities should support vulnerable young people and communities to reduce the risks of them becoming involved in drugs and illicit alcohol.
Narcotics and illicit brew are considered toxic and dangerous for consumption according to 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 or doesn’t have the required quality for consumption shall be considered a narcotic drug.
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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