One vehicle, registration number RAA 982E, Daihatsu type was being driven by Epimaque Kabera, 37, when it was intercepted in Rubavu District in Bugeshi Sector, Buringo Cell in Gahira Village while carrying 900 liters of illicit brew.

Another vehicle, RAA 746U, Hilux type was driven by James Manirakiza, 25. It was intercepted in Nyakigezi Village, Gakoro cell of Rugera sector in Nyabihu District with over 250 liters of illicit drinks.

Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Bonaventure Twizere Karekezi, the Police spokesperson for the Western region, said that the vehicle, RAA 746U was delivering the psychotropic substances to one Alexander Nduhuyabagabo, 40, another dealer in Nyabihu.

“The 250 liters were bought from distillers in Bugeshi and Rugera sectors, in Rubavu and Nyabihu respectively,” CIP Karekezi said.

This comes less than a week after more than 4,500 liters of assorted illicit substances were also seized and disposed-of in Nyabihu District.

“This is part of the ongoing operations against distillers and dealers in psychotropic substances, working in partnership with local leaders and largely based on credible information we receive from the public. The operations are meant to break the manufacturing and distribution chains,” he added.

All drinks with alcoholic content above 45 percent or with unknown alcoholic content are considered as “psychotropic substance.”

Article 263 of Rwanda penal code stipulates that any person who, unlawfully, produces, transforms, transports, stores, gives to another or who sells narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances commits an offense, with a sentence upon conviction, ranging between seven years and life in prison, and a fine of between Rwf20 million and Rwf30 million.