NORTHERN PROVINCE

Local authorities in the Burera district have intensified a campaign against people dealing in illegal drugs, including the local home made toxic alcohols chief Waragi, and another commonly known as Kanyanga, which is being smuggled into the country from Uganda.

Over the past two months, 12 people including three women were arrested and charged with drug abuse. Three vehicles were also seized after being intercepted transporting chief waragi, the owners were charged fines at least a Rwf1m.

This was revealed during a ceremony to destroy jerrycans with 1,788 litres of kanyanga and 1,850 litres of chief waragi worth Rwf5m on Tuesday. These were impounded over the same period. During the burning, local authorities issued a stern warning to those still involved in drug trafficking. 

Aimé Bosenibamwe, the district Mayor, cautioned residents that the drugs and alcohol did not only endanger their health, but are also a threat to society as they often result to increased crime. 

He encouraged the residents to work through community policing, to arrest those involved and work with police to stop the vice.

Citing domestic violence, suicide cases and fighting, the district Police Commander, Sup Callos Kabayiza, said most of the crimes being committed in the area are linked to drug abuse.

The drugs are reportedly bought from local brewing industries in Kisoro, Uganda and enter the country through Butaro in Burera district.

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