KIGALI, Rwanda – Rwandan police have apprehended approximately 20 young people in the Kicukiro District, specifically in the Niboye Sector, for participating in a prohibited ‘house party.’
The raid took place at a residence that was reportedly filled with revelers. However, when authorities arrived on the scene, several attendees managed to escape. Law enforcement successfully detained about 20 individuals believed to be the primary organizers and participants in the illicit gathering.
The spokesperson for the Rwanda National Police in Kigali, Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Wellars Gahonzire, confirmed the arrests to IGIHE. He stated that while those detained were all released after being counseled and agreeing not to repeat the offense, the operation served as a strong warning against such unauthorized social events.
“While some of the alcohol consumed was sourced from the market, the main concern is that these youths were found highly intoxicated,” CIP Gahonzire explained. “When young people gather in such large numbers and consume alcohol to the point of intoxication, it often leads to public disorder. Furthermore, the alcohol they were drinking does not meet quality standards.”
CIP Gahonzire also issued a stern reminder that all alcohol confiscated from unofficial markets is prohibited for human consumption in any form. He warned that anyone found in possession of such substances would face legal consequences.
“There are those who might think they can hide these illicit drinks or consume them in private homes and other venues. We are warning those involved in these activities to stop immediately,” he added.
The Police Spokesperson also addressed the issue of bars operating illegally, noting that several establishments have been caught violating the operating hours set by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB).
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“We have observed bars in Kicukiro operating beyond the legal hours and creating noise disturbances. Moreover, bar owners found in violation are often involved in other offenses, such as obstructing law enforcement or attempting to bribe officers,” CIP Gahonzire said.
He clarified that anyone arrested would be held accountable for all related offenses, including attempts at bribery, exceeding legal operating hours, and attempting to aid clients in evading arrest.
This crackdown on illicit alcohol consumption comes amid a broader national effort to curb the circulation of substandard beverages. To date, over 150 distilleries producing unsafe alcohol in Rwanda have been shut down. The confiscated products, alongside illegally imported beverages, have also been taken off the market.
The Ministry of Health has previously reported alarming statistics regarding the dangers of illicit alcohol, revealing that in just six months, over 50 people have died, more than 100 have been left permanently disabled, and approximately 11,000 others have fallen ill due to consuming unregulated and toxic alcoholic drinks.
