Gasana Isaie, the Executive Secretary of Kansi Sector in Gisagara District, has been released after spending five days under investigation over allegations that he protected a factory accused of producing substandard alcoholic beverages.
Gasana was arrested on August 6, 2026, and detained at the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) station in Ndora before being released on August 11, 2026.
Investigation Linked to Closed Factory
According to information obtained by IGIHE, Gasana was being investigated over allegations that he protected a factory producing substandard beverages. The factory had reportedly been closed by the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA) but later resumed operations.
The circumstances surrounding the factory’s reopening became a key part of the investigation into the sector official.
Questions Over Factory Closure
Reports indicate that when the factory was initially closed, the sector authorities did not place their own padlocks on the premises. Instead, only the factory’s existing locks remained in place.
Investigators are reportedly examining whether this situation created an opportunity for the factory to resume operations despite the closure order, leading to the arrest of the Executive Secretary.
Two Others Also Released
Gisagara District Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, Habineza Jean Paul, confirmed that Gasana was released together with two other people who had been detained in connection with the case.
The two others included the head of Impinga Village, where the factory was located, and one of the factory’s employees.
District Official Comments
Habineza said the release was confirmed but noted that RIB was best placed to explain the reasons behind the decision.
“It is true that he was released, but the Rwanda Investigation Bureau is in the best position to explain the circumstances; apparently, it found it appropriate to release him,” he said.
Investigations into the allegations surrounding the production of substandard alcoholic beverages are expected to continue.
