Police in the Southern Province of Rwanda, working together with other security institutions, have intensified operations aimed at preventing and combating crimes related to substandard alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs. The campaign, which began on February 8, 2026, is part of ongoing efforts by the Rwanda National Police to protect public health and ensure community safety.
According to police, the operation has already yielded significant results. Authorities have publicly destroyed more than 157,048 liters of illegal alcoholic beverages seized from various locations across the province. In addition, 159 liters of Kanyanga, a locally brewed illicit gin, were also destroyed along with 28 kilograms and 506 rolls of cannabis that were confiscated during the operations.
Several suspects believed to be involved in the production, distribution, and sale of these illegal substances have been arrested and handed over to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau for further investigation.
The spokesperson of the Rwanda National Police in the Southern Province, CIP Hassan Kamanzi, warned that substandard alcohol and drugs pose serious risks to people’s health and safety.
“Substandard alcoholic drinks harm the health of citizens. Such drinks are poisonous, just like illegal drugs,” said Kamanzi.
He called on members of the public to actively support efforts aimed at preventing crime by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
“Everyone should play a role in preventing these illegal activities. Practices that threaten the safety and wellbeing of citizens must stop,” he added.
Police also thanked residents who continue to cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely information that helps prevent crime before it occurs. Authorities emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and warned that anyone found producing, transporting, selling, or consuming illegal alcohol and drugs will face legal consequences.