In two operations conducted by the Rwanda National Police (RNP) last week, narcotics that included cannabis (marijuana) and illicit gin, commonly known as kanyanga, were impounded. The impounded contraband included 40 litres of kanyanga and 14 kilogrammes of cannabis. During the operations that were conducted in the districts of Gasabo, Kayonza and Nyagatare district, Police also arrested five people in connection with the illegal business. The Central Region Police spokesperson, Modest Mbabazi, commended the good partnership with public, which he noted was very paramount in seizure of narcotic drugs. Public cautioned Mbabazi urged the public to avoid engaging in the trade of narcotics and switch to other legal and profitable businesses. “Drug dealing and consumption, is a criminal act and punishable by the Rwandan law,” said Mbabazi. He said the vice has negative effects that affect not only individuals but also communities. Mbabazi also pointed out that theft, rape, defilement, school dropouts, unwanted pregnancies and assault as crimes being linked to drug dealing. Article 594 of the Rwandan penal code, stipulates that, any person who, unlawfully, makes, transforms, imports, or sells narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances within the country, shall be liable to a term of imprisonment of three to five years and a fine of Rwf500,000 to Rwf5 million.
