Rwanda National Police has begun disposing of more than 470,000 litres of ethanol that had been used in the production of substandard and illicit alcoholic beverages, marking another significant step in the government’s ongoing crackdown on illegal alcohol manufacturing.
The disposal exercise started on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the Nduba dumpsite in Gasabo District, where the seized ethanol is being destroyed to prevent it from re-entering the market.
Speaking during the exercise, the Police Spokesperson for the City of Kigali, Wellars Gahonzire, said the ethanol had been confiscated during enforcement operations conducted since Sunday, August 2.
“Since August 2, law enforcement agencies have seized more than 470,000 litres of ethanol that was being used to manufacture substandard alcoholic drinks. The ethanol is being destroyed at the Nduba dumpsite to ensure it does not pose any further risk to public health and safety,” Gahonzire said.
The latest operation forms part of a broader government campaign to eliminate illicit alcohol from the market and protect consumers from dangerous products that often contain unsafe levels of industrial chemicals.
Earlier this year, the Government of Rwanda intensified inspections and enforcement actions targeting illegal alcohol manufacturers and distributors.
The campaign resulted in the closure many companies found to be producing or distributing alcoholic beverages that failed to meet national quality and safety standards.
Authorities said many of the affected businesses were using industrial ethanol and other unauthorized substances to produce counterfeit alcoholic drinks, posing serious health risks to consumers.
The crackdown was accompanied by stricter regulatory measures, enhanced inspections, and stronger coordination among law enforcement agencies, health authorities, and regulatory institutions.
The government has repeatedly warned that the production, distribution, and sale of illicit alcohol endanger lives, undermine legitimate businesses, and violate national public health regulations.
Officials have urged consumers to purchase alcoholic beverages only from licensed producers and to report suspected cases of illegal alcohol production or sale.
The destruction of the seized ethanol underscores Rwanda’s continued commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that only safe, regulated alcoholic products reach the market.
