Rwanda national police have beefed up operations against trafficking of illicit drugs and smuggling, and urged residents to play their part in providing timely information about suspected smugglers.

In part of the ongoing operations, Police in Nyabihu District apprehended six suspected drug traffickers, including four women, who were caught sneaking 2,400 sachets of Sky Blue, a banned gin in Rwanda, and other contraband.

The suspects - Odette Nyiramirimo, 20, Florence Mukamana, 26, Agnes Kubwimana, 27, Jacquline Uwimana, 36, Esperance Dusabe, 40 and Leo Habiyambere, 32, are currently held at Mukamira Police station pending further investigations.

The operation was largely successful due to information provided from residents, Police said, which indicates continued strong partnership between the force and residents in collectively ensuring security and the rule of law.

Police Spokesperson for Western Province, Inspector of Police Theobald Kanamugire, noted that smuggling affects the economy through tax evasion.

"We commend those who continue to provide timely information to Police, because it indicates society has embraced community policing,” IP Kanamugire said.

"Smuggling illicit brew into the country cannot be tolerated…Let us continue working together through community policing to overcome the vice.”

Police runs the Revenue Protection Department - attached to the national tax body, Rwanda Revenue Authority - that fights fraud and smuggling.

Article 369 on tax evasion, states that a taxpayer who is convicted of tax evasion shall be liable to a term of imprisonment of at least three months but less than six months and a fine equal to the evaded tax.

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