Those arrested also include people, who were either found drinking in these shops or holding social gatherings like drinking and watching movies in homes.

They were arrested in Kimironko, Kibagabaga, Kicukiro and Kinyinya.

“We were partying and the music was loud. We knew about the directives but thought that since we live in the same neighborhood, it was okay. Now we know that we are here at the Police station for a reason; we violated the rules for this period; we didn’t do the right thing,” said one of the arrested.

Beatrice Niyonshuti said that she repented from inviting people in her shop to drink; at least seven people were arrested in her shop.

Rwanda National Police (RNP) spokesperson, Commissioner of Police (CP) John Bosco Kabera warned of continuous operations to arrest anyone, who disregards and violates the instructions meant to prevent the spread of the pandemic.

“We commend the ownership and high spirit of members of the public, who report such violations in their communities, which facilitates enforcement,” CP Kabera said.

“When you buy your drinks, go home and take it from your house, don’t invite a friend or a neighbor, because that’s prohibited and anyone found in such violations will be arrested. This also goes to owners of shops selling foodstuffs and other basic needs, who turn them into bars,” he warned.

In this period, bars are closed; visits and social gatherings are prohibited and so are unnecessary movements.

Separate Police operations conducted in City of Kigali arrested 28 people, who had turned their shops and homes into bars.