Rwandan security and regulatory agencies have announced the seizure of large quantities of substandard, counterfeit, and smuggled goods following a nationwide operation conducted between October 13 and 17, 2025, under the code name Usalama XI-2025.
Speaking during a joint press conference in Kigali, officials from the Rwanda National Police (RNP), the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA), and the City of Kigali detailed the success of the coordinated crackdown, which led to the arrest of 72 suspects involved in trafficking and distribution of illegal products — including 14 individuals apprehended within the City of Kigali.
The briefing was addressed by RNP Spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga, RIB Spokesperson Dr. Thierry Murangira, Dr. Eric Nyirimigabo from Rwanda FDA, and Emma Claudine, Director General of Communications and Education at the City of Kigali.
Authorities said the operation targeted a wide range of illicit and unsafe goods circulating on the Rwandan market.
The seized items included alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, narcotic drugs, uninspected meat and food products, as well as counterfeit cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
According to ACP Rutikanga, the coordinated exercise is part of ongoing regional and national efforts to dismantle criminal networks involved in smuggling and production of substandard goods.
“Usalama XI-2025 was a joint effort to protect consumers and ensure that markets are free from unsafe and illegal products,” he said.
Dr. Thierry Murangira of RIB emphasized that those arrested will be charged according to the law and investigations are ongoing to identify suppliers and distribution chains.
“We are determined to break the networks behind these crimes. Counterfeiting and smuggling endanger lives, distort fair competition, and undermine public trust,” he noted.
From the regulatory perspective, Dr. Eric Nyirimigabo of Rwanda FDA warned against the circulation of unregistered food and drug products, saying they pose serious health risks.
“Rwanda FDA will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to trace and remove all non-compliant products from the market,” he said.
Emma Claudine, representing the City of Kigali, urged traders and residents to prioritize safety and compliance.
“Consumers must be vigilant and report suspicious goods. Public health begins with responsibility at the community level,” she said.
The Usalama XI-2025 operation was conducted simultaneously across all provinces and the City of Kigali.
Officials said the seized items will be analyzed and safely destroyed as investigations continue.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustained enforcement operations and community awareness campaigns to prevent the circulation of counterfeit, smuggled, and substandard goods across Rwanda.
