Illicit drugs and liquor were on Tuesday destroyed in Gatsibo District in a public exercise presided over by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government, Vincent Munyeshyaka.

The items included 40 cartons of chief waragi and 180 litres of kanyanga, an illegal gin. Also destroyed were eight kilogrammes and 115 pellets of cannabis.

The drugs were seized in the district in the last three months. Six suspected drug traffickers were also arrested in connection with the seized illegal drugs.

In an event that was also attended by clerics and officials from prosecution, Munyeshyaka appealed to hundreds of area residents and students, who turned up for the destruction exercise to strengthen efforts against the sale and consumption of such hazardous substances.

He also commended area residents for availing information that led to the seizure of the narcotic drugs.

Chief Supt. Eric Mutsinzi, the Eastern Region Police Commander (RPC), said six people were arrested in connection with the destroyed drugs.

He noted that the suspects were apprehended as they tried to sneak them into the country through porous borders.

"We are ready to crack down on this vice by arresting all those involved,” CSP Mutsinzi, said, noting that trade in illicit drugs has reduced tremendously.

Pastor Sylvestre Ngwabije ,of Evangelical Fellowship of Hope and Love, challenged fellow clerics to preach against drug abuse.

"A sacred soul resides in a healthy body. Churches and mosques are strategic areas to pass on the message against drug abuse,” Pastor Ngwabije said.

Drug abuse is among the common crimes committed in the country.