Police in Musanze District have arrested two men who were operating illegal breweries producing an illicit alcoholic drink locally known as Muriture, which does not meet health and safety standards.
Authorities say the suspects were fully aware of the harmful effects of the drink, to the extent that they themselves could not consume it or give it to their own family members.
The two suspects were arrested in separate locations. One was apprehended in Bugesi Village, Mburabuturo Cell, while the other was arrested in Susa Village, Kivugiza Cell. During the operation,
Police also seized 1,250 liters of Muriture, which were immediately destroyed after being found unfit for human consumption.
The arrests were confirmed by the Northern Province Police Spokesperson, IP Ingace Ngirabakunzi, who emphasized that individuals involved in producing such illegal alcohol are fully aware of its dangers.
“The information we have shows that those who produce this alcohol cannot drink it themselves or give it to their children, because they know the harmful effects it causes,” he said.
IP Ngirabakunzi warned people involved in the production of substandard alcoholic beverages that police operations against such activities will continue. He added that those who have not yet been arrested should be aware that they will eventually face the law.
“The plan is to continue cracking down on the production of these illegal drinks. At the same time, citizens must understand that they have a responsibility to protect themselves, because once they consume such alcohol, they are the first to suffer the consequences,” he added.
Rwanda National Police also noted that illicit alcohol such as Muriture is often linked to other security concerns. People who consume it may lose self-control and engage in violent or criminal behavior, posing risks to public safety.
Additionally, police highlighted that such alcohol frequently contributes to family conflicts. In many cases, spouses who consume these drinks become intoxicated and end up abusing or mistreating their partners and other family members.
Police have reiterated their call for the public to avoid consuming illegal alcoholic beverages and to report anyone involved in their production or distribution, in order to protect public health and maintain community safety.
