The Rwanda Police have attributed a decline in violent crimes, domestic disputes, and road accidents to their crackdown on the production and consumption of homemade liquor, commonly known as "ibyum". According to CIP Wellars Gahonzire, spokesperson for the Kigali City Police, the campaign, which has been ongoing for three months, has led to a noticeable reduction in crime and improved safety in communities that were previously affected.
Gahonzire explained that the police verify the composition of the liquor, check if it's produced by authorized individuals, and assess its impact on consumers and national security. He cited instances where homemade liquor has caused severe health issues, loss of productivity, and family breakdown. The police have been working to identify and dismantle networks involved in the production and distribution of the liquor.
The police say that areas notorious for homemade liquor consumption, such as Isi ya Cyenda in Kigali's Kimisagara sector, have seen a significant reduction in crime. Residents had previously reported that these areas were plagued by violence, prostitution, and substance abuse. Gahonzire stated that the police have been engaging with the community to educate them about the dangers of homemade liquor.
The crackdown on homemade liquor has also led to a decrease in road accidents caused by drunk driving. Gahonzire noted that some drivers would consume the liquor after work, then get behind the wheel, leading to accidents that resulted in fatalities or injuries. While accidents still occur, he said they are no longer linked to excessive drinking.
Residents have reported improved safety and reduced domestic disputes since the crackdown began. Some have expressed relief that the decision to ban homemade liquor was made, citing the problems it had caused in their lives. Gahonzire said that the police have been working with the community to encourage those who still possess homemade liquor to surrender it.
However, some traders are still using tactics to hide and sell the liquor, including disguising it as bottled water. The police have been using undercover operations to catch those involved in the illicit trade. Gahonzire warned traders who continue to flout the law, saying they will face consequences.
The police are also targeting youth, urging them to avoid substance abuse and focus on building a better future. Gahonzire emphasized that young people should use their formative years to prepare for adulthood, rather than risking their future with substance abuse. He encouraged young people to work hard and make positive choices to become productive members of society.
Key points
- The Rwanda Police have reduced crime and improved safety by cracking down on homemade liquor.
- The crackdown has led to a decrease in road accidents caused by drunk driving.
- Residents have reported improved safety and reduced domestic disputes since the crackdown began.
