The Police spokesperson for the Eastern region, Superintendent of Police (SP) Hamdun Twizeyimana, said that Mbarushimana was intercepted in Kagoma Village, Isangano Cell of Ndego Sector following collaboration between the Police and local residents.

"He was transporting a sack containing 10kgs of cannabis, on a bicycle. Police had prior information of his criminal dealings and he was intercepted in Ndego as he headed to Kabare Sector," said SP Twizeyimana.

He added that Mbarushimana was allegedly going to supply another drug dealer in Kabare Sector also in Kayonza District, who is yet to be arrested.

According to Mbarushimana, he got the narcotics from an abandoned house in Kagoma Village, Ndego Sector where another member of the racket had left it.

"Law enforcement organs are working together to identify and bring to justice all members of this ring," said SP Twizeyimana.

Mbarushimana was handed over to RIB at Ndego station.

Cannabis is listed among very severe drugs under the Ministerial order nº 001/MoH/2019 of 04/03/2019 establishing the list of narcotic drugs and their categorisation.

The penalty for dealing in very severe drugs, under article 263 of the law determining offences and penalties in general, ranges between 20 years and life imprisonment, and a fine of Rwf20 million to Rwf30 million.