POLICE’s intensified operations against use and sell of narcotic drugs led to the seizure of 1100 litres of illicit brew and 40 rolls of cannabis over the weekend in various parts of the country. Four people were arrested over the weekend in addition to another four arrested on Friday. One of the suspects, Innocent Hakizimana, was arrested in Rambura Sector of Nyabihu District with 40 sachets of cannabis. He is currently held at Jomba Police Station as further investigations are ongoing, police say. In another case, residents in Ngororero District, Bwira Sector provided credible information that led to the seizure of 200 liters of illicit brew and distilling equipment. Up to900 other liters of illicit brew were seized in Rutsiro District. The Western Province Police Spokesperson, Superintendent Emmanuel Hitayezu, said that the operation is an example of a solid relationship between police and the public. “Police is focused on working with the community to stop either trade or consumption of illicit brew to reduce the violence associated with drug trafficking and abuse,” he said. “Through Community policing, RNP has effectively lessened the flow of narcotics and put in place stronger mechanisms that involve the public on overcoming this scourge.” He warned those in the habit of dealing in illicit brew, and urged residents to step up their collaboration with police to protect their communities against such dangerous products. “Many citizens understand the consequences of drug abuse and are determined to fight such. I urge the youth not to connive or shield those who break the law, or try to join gangs that offer nothing but ruining lives,” he added. Narcotics and illicit brew are considered toxic and dangerous to those who consume them – and are against article 24 of the law governing narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors in Rwanda. It states that any drink that exceeds 45 per cent of alcohol content and any other drink which doesn’t have the required quality for consumption shall be considered as narcotic drugs. Making, importing or selling narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances attracts a prison sentence between three and five years and a fine between Rwf500, 000 and Rwf5 million, under article 594 of the Penal Code.
