Police in Gasabo District have arrested 10 people in Kinyinya and Gikomero sectors for allegedly producing and selling kanyanga and other prohibited alcoholic drinks.
The suspects were arrested on September 15, 2026, during an operation targeting the production and sale of illegal alcohol.
In Kinyinya Sector, Kagugu Cell, Giheka Village, police arrested a 37-year-old bar owner who was allegedly selling prohibited alcohol. Officers seized 253 bottles containing 25 different types of illegal drinks.
The seized alcohol was destroyed, while the suspect was taken into custody at Kinyinya Police Station pending further legal proceedings.
In Gikomero Sector, Murambi Cell, Rugarama Village, police arrested nine people suspected of producing and selling kanyanga on a commercial scale.
According to police, the arrests followed information from residents. Some of the suspects were caught producing kanyanga, while others were arrested at their homes where they were allegedly selling the illicit drink.
The operation yielded 20 litres of kanyanga and 560 litres of merase, a substance used in its production.
Kigali City Police spokesperson CIP Wellars Gahonzire thanked residents for providing information that helped authorities apprehend the suspects and seize the illegal drinks.
He urged residents to continue reporting people involved in the production and sale of prohibited alcohol to prevent the products from reaching consumers.
Police reminded the public that kanyanga is illegal in Rwanda and warned that those involved in producing, selling or consuming it face prosecution and severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Gahonzire also urged people who are hiding prohibited alcoholic drinks to surrender them to their local authorities for destruction.
He warned that people found in possession of or selling the banned drinks could face prosecution for deliberately violating the law and endangering public health.
Police advised residents to avoid kanyanga and other alcoholic drinks that do not meet safety standards, warning that they can cause serious health problems, chronic illnesses and death.
