Rwanda National Police (RNP paraded 43 people, who were arrested in different parts of City of Kigali for driving while drunk and flouting the government Covid-19 prevention directives.
They were arrested in separate operations conducted between August 11th and 16th.
At least 37 people showed to the media are drunk drivers while six others were found holding a house party on Sunday, August 15.
At about 8pm, on Sunday, Police found the six people gathered and drinking at the home of one Olin Ndayishimye, also arrested, located in Masoro Village, Masoro Cell of Ndera Sector, Gasabo District.
The party host, Ndayishimye admitted to the violations and asked for leniency.
“I had invited my neighbors to share drinks at home, where Police found and arrested us for flouting the Covid-19 prevention guidelines,” Ndayishimye told journalists at Nyarugenge District Police Unit (DPU) offices in Rwezamenyo Sector.
Francois Karera, who was arrested for drunk-driving on Sunday, August 15, said that he had taken alcoholic drinks before he was stopped by the Police for the serious road traffic violation.
Innocent Mbonabucya, who was arrested in Nyarutarama Cell of Remera Sector, also admitted that he took Kambuca, a local produced brew.
Mbonabucya, however, argued that he was not aware that Kambuca contains alcoholic content.
RNP spokesperson, Commissioner of Police (CP) John Bosco Kabera warned drivers against driving under the influence of alcohol, which can be fatal.
He further warned people, who flaut the government Covid-19 prevention directives to organize prohibited gatherings like parties.
“Police conducted awareness campaigns under Gerayo Amahoro, dedicated to influence road users to use the road safely, which includes driving when you are sober. It is suicide to drive when you are drunk and you are also a threat to other people using the road,” CP Kabera said.
“To those who turn their homes into bars or those who host social gatherings in their homes; they should know that such practices can lead to further spread of the pandemic. We are happy that the public continue to report such violations and facilitate the arrest of such errant individuals,” he added.(End)