MUHANGA- In a bid to stem the brewing of illicit liquor commonly known as Kanyanga, local leaders in Shyogwe Sector want government to mete out heavy punitive measures on residents involved in the practice.

The Executive Secretary of Mbare Cell, JMV Ntezeyaremye, said the brewing of Kanyanga has continued unabated in the area despite the fines handed to culprits.

"Such residents caught red-handed need to be subjected to long jail terms as a deterrent measure,” Ntezeyaremye said.

Ntezeyaremye made the remarks during an anti-Kanyanga operation that netted two suspects in Muremberi village, yesterday.

Joseph Hitimana (26) and Jean de Dieu Habimana (24) were apprehended with 25 litres of the banned gin and brewing equipment installed in their home. The suspects are currently being held at Nyamabuye Police station in Muhanga District.

Shyogwe leaders vowed to step up a crackdown on residents involved in brewing of the liquor.
 
Shyogwe Sector is known for being home to illegal brewers in Muhanga District.

The sector also topped others in a recent crime report.

"We have set up informers within the community, and network to crack down on such business. We won’t give up until this bad image is erased from our community” Felix Hakizimana, a village head vowed.

The suspects admitted to the crime. Joseph Hitimana, the mastermind behind brewing of the illicit liquor argued that he did it make a living.

Area police stated that the suspects would be prosecuted and tight measures taken to eliminate such illegal activities.

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