The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) announced that it has arrested more than 80 people suspected of involvement in the production of substandard alcohol across the country.
Among those arrested are 16 people in Kigali, including factory owners and employees. One of them is the Director of Inguvu Gin Ltd, Ntihanabose Samuel, also known as Kazungu, together with other staff members of the company.
This was announced on Saturday, August 8, 2026, when RIB presented some of the suspects following investigations launched on July 27, 2026.
According to Imvaho Nshya, the arrests were carried out in different parts of the country, with RIB confirming that over 80 suspects have been detained.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Thierry B. Murangira said those under investigation include government employees, factory owners, workers from previously closed factories, and local leaders.
He said: “Those being investigated include government employees, factory owners, workers from closed factories, local leaders, and even individuals operating illegally. No category is exempt.”
RIB emphasized that investigations target anyone suspected of involvement, regardless of their position.
The Director of Inguvu Gin Ltd is among those arrested, along with other employees of the company, who are being investigated for alleged crimes.
Other workers from previously closed factories have also been arrested for various offenses.
Methanol was found to be involved in the production process. Methanol can cause severe health effects if ingested beyond safe levels. RIB said the arrests aim to protect the lives of Rwandans.
Dr. Murangira stressed that the operations are meant to safeguard public health and prevent dangerous products from reaching consumers.
RIB also confirmed that employees from Entreprise Urwibutso were arrested, specifically from the alcohol production unit, while the juice production unit remains open.
The suspects face charges including supplying harmful substances, embezzlement, forgery, and resisting authority.
Supplying harmful substances is covered under Article 115 of the Penal Code, punishable by 2–3 years in prison and a fine of 300,000–500,000 Rwandan francs.
Forgery is covered under Article 276, punishable by 5–7 years in prison and a fine of 3–5 million Rwandan francs.
Resisting authority is covered under Article 230, punishable by 6–12 months in prison.
RIB stated that investigations are ongoing nationwide, with the main goal being to protect lives and hold accountable all those involved in illegal activities, regardless of their status.
Those arrested will continue to be investigated, with each person’s role determined based on collected evidence before further legal steps are taken.
