English
Kinyarwanda
As Rwanda joins the rest of the world to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Rwanda National Police (RNP) has urged the community to engage actively in the prevention and combat of substance abuse, particularly among the youth.
The international observance, held annually on June 26, aims to raise awareness about the global impact of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
In Rwanda, the day serves as an important opportunity to assess progress in the national fight against drug-related crimes and to encourage public participation in fostering safer and drug-free communities.
Speaking during a press briefing, RNP spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, highlighted the connection between substance abuse and criminal behavior.
“Over the past six months alone, RNP has arrested 778 individuals in connection with drug-related crimes. Among them, 234 were identified as traffickers or dealers while 544 were consumers—most of them under the age of 40,” ACP Rutikanga said.
“Like elsewhere in the world, Rwanda faces complex challenges related to all categories of drugs; however, our primary focus is on dismantling trafficking networks while implementing targeted interventions for individuals in need of medical treatment and those requiring rehabilitation" ACP Rutikanga said.
He also highlighted the often-overlooked consequences of alcohol abuse, pointing out its role in family breakdowns, road traffic accidents, and social instability.
“Alcohol may be legal, but its misuse is becoming a serious concern. We call on citizens to adopt responsible drinking habits while also protecting minors against consumption of alcoholic beverages,” he emphasized.
Rwanda’s legal framework on narcotics is anchored in Law No. 68/2018 of 30/08/2018, which imposes strict penalties ranging from seven years to life imprisonment and fines up to Frw30 million for drug-related crimes.
A complementary Ministerial Order, issued in 2021, further outlines the classification, enforcement procedures, and rehabilitation pathways.
