RIB seizes counterfeit and substandard goods worth Rwf 106 million

By The Inspirer 

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), in collaboration with the Rwanda National Police, the City of Kigali, and the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA), has seized counterfeit and substandard products valued at over Rwf 106 million as part of Operation Usalama XI, a national campaign against illicit trade.

According to RIB, the operation led to the destruction of goods worth Rwf 104 million and fines totaling more than Rwf 107 million imposed on individuals involved.

During the week-long exercise, authorities shut down four factories and eight pharmacies across the country for violating health and safety standards. Among them was Joyland Company Ltd, the producer of Salama juice, which was found operating without meeting quality requirements and manufacturing unauthorized products, including steel wire under the same brand name.

Officials ordered the immediate withdrawal of Salama juice and other unsafe products from the market, urging anyone who had purchased them to dispose of them safely.

RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry warned that being a businessperson does not exempt anyone from the law. He said entrepreneurship does not grant immunity from prosecution. No one has the right to endanger the lives of Rwandans for personal profit. Every entrepreneur must comply with the law.

A total of 72 people were arrested nationwide in connection with the case, including 15 in the City of Kigali, while others remain at large.

Dr. Nyiringabo Eric, from Rwanda FDA, emphasized that the confiscated goods were officially removed from the market and called for vigilance among consumers. He said once these items were seized, their certification was revoked. Manufacturers were urged to recall their products, and consumers were reminded to check expiry and production dates before buying any goods.

Besides the closure of the Salama juice plant, Sky Brewery Ltd, producer of Intwari beer, was also temporarily shut down. Other seized items included illegal skin-lightening creams, artificial sugar, fake alcoholic beverages, ethanol used in illicit liquor production, and several expired drugs.

RIB reiterated its call for cooperation from local authorities and the public in reporting any suspicious activities related to the production or sale of counterfeit goods. Dr. Murangira said fighting crime is a shared responsibility and citizens should report such cases promptly as it is both a civic duty and a mark of good leadership.

Operation Usalama XI is an annual initiative conducted in partnership with key institutions including Rwanda FDA, RICA, the Rwanda Competition and Consumer Protection Authority, Immigration and Emigration, and the National Police. It aims to safeguard consumers by ensuring that only safe and certified products reach the Rwandan market.