Police in Gatsibo District have intercepted a vehicle loaded with 80 boxes of illicit gin called ‘Zebra Waragi.’

The gin is among those banned in Rwanda and classified as a narcotic drug under the law governing narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors.

The driver of the vehicle identified as Donat Nkundimana was also arrested.

Police Spokesperson Celestin Twahirwa said the vehicle was intercepted on Friday in Kiramuruzi Sector.

"Police received information about a vehicle headed to Gatsibo from Gatuna carrying illicit gin and it was trailed until it was intercepted at an erected checkpoint, where the driver was arrested,” Twahirwa said.

Police is still searching for the second person only identified as Ndoli, who was on board and said to be the owner of the illicit gin. Ndoli reportedly escaped after tricking the driver.

Nkundimana narrated that he was hired from Kigali by Ndoli to carry the illegal goods from Gatuna to Rukomo in Gicumbi at an agreed fee of Rwf150,000.

"When we reached in Rukomo, he told me that plans had changed and that the consignment would be transported to Muhura in Gatsibo but along the way, I think Ndoli noticed that we were falling in a police trap and he moved out like someone going for a short call and escaped,” Nkundimana said.

Nkundimana had been offered more Rwf50,000 to deliver the goods in Gatsibo.

"Truth is, I knew what I was transporting, this is my first time and I regret doing it,” he added.

Police warned that all drinks parked in sachets are not allowed in Rwanda.

"Any drink parked in sachets or plastic bags is illegal and considered illicit; besides, such drinks don't meet the required standards and their alcoholic content pose danger to consumers and we urge the public, who are our strong partners to press on in this fight,” Twahirwa said.

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