Rwanda National Police, working with other authorities and residents, has seized and destroyed banned alcoholic drinks that were still being sold in bars and liquor depots across Kigali, including one dealer found with 192 cartons.
The seizures followed tip-offs from residents about traders who continued selling the prohibited drinks, which authorities have withdrawn from the market over concerns about their safety.
On October 4, 2026, police found cartons of various banned alcoholic beverages at the home of a man identified as Mbonimpa Idrissa in Gasabo District. The products included Konyagi, Kiwingu, Gilbey’s, Bazoka, Uruvange and Rak Gin, among others.
Mbonimpa, who reportedly operates a shop in the Gaharomani area of Rusororo, was not found at the time of the operation. Police said he had fled and was being sought, while the seized drinks were destroyed.
In another operation in Rusororo, police seized 192 cartons of illicit alcoholic drinks from a depot belonging to Gatete Aimable between October 10 and 11. The consignment included 35 cartons of Kiwingu.
Police said the drinks were destroyed and that Gatete was being sought for allegedly trading in prohibited alcoholic beverages.
In Nyarugenge District, officers also raided Moon Life bar in Muhima Sector, where they found banned drinks, mainly Konyagi, K Vant, Bazoka and Kiwingu.
The bar’s manager, identified as Tuyishime Claire, was arrested and detained at Muhima Police Station, according to police.
Police commended residents for providing timely information that helps authorities identify traders who continue to sell the prohibited products.
“Finding these drinks in the possession of traders shows that they are still circulating among the public,” police said, urging residents to report anyone suspected of selling them secretly.
Authorities also warned the public against consuming the drinks, saying they pose risks to people’s health.
