Police have seized hundreds of cartons and bottles of alcoholic drinks described as illegal or substandard in three operations in Kigali, arresting one bar manager and searching for two suspected suppliers.
In the latest operation, officers searched Moon Life bar in Nyabugogo Cell, Muhima Sector, after a resident reported that it was selling drinks withdrawn from the market.
Police said they found 100 bottles, including Konyagi, K-Vant, Bazoka, Kiwingo, Gilbey’s, Bond Seven and Indiko Gin.
The bar manager, Tuyishime Claire, 27, was arrested and detained at Muhima Police Station. Police said the seized drinks were destroyed.
In separate operations in Rusororo Sector, Gasabo District, officers and other security agencies seized 192 cartons of assorted drinks from a depot in Kabeza Village on October 10 and 11.
The stock included Kiwingu, King Vodka, GS Run, Medal Gin and other brands. The suspected owner, Gatete Aimable, is being sought.
Police also reported seizing assorted drinks from the home of Mbonimpa Idrissa, 29, in Kabuga I Cell on October 4.
They included four cartons and 36 bottles of Konyagi, two cartons and 32 bottles of Gilbey’s, six cartons of Diama, and bottles of several other brands. Mbonimpa fled and is also being sought.
The crackdown comes amid wider concerns about illicit and substandard alcohol. Rwanda National Police says the products locally known as “ibyuma” include drinks made or distributed through unauthorised or unsafe processes.
The Ministry of Health reported that 44 people died between January and June 2026 after consuming drinks adulterated with toxic substances, which authorities say can cause blindness, organ damage and death.
Police have urged residents to avoid the drinks and report anyone suspected of selling or concealing them.
