Rwanda National Police recorded 432 physical assault cases in August, down from 652 in July, a reduction of 220 cases as authorities stepped up operations against illicit alcoholic drinks.
Police records classify the cases as battery, which includes the unlawful use of physical force against another person through acts such as hitting, punching, kicking or slapping.
Operations against illicit and substandard alcohol intensified in late July and early August following concerns over the health and social effects of unsafe alcoholic drinks.
By August 4, authorities had inspected 246 production sites, closed nearly 110 factories and arrested 56 suspects. Products worth more than Rwf2.6 billion had also been seized, while fines amounting to nearly Rwf360 million had been imposed.
The operation later widened, with more than 140 companies closed and hundreds of alcohol brands recalled from the market.
Rwanda Investigation Bureau later reported that 104 suspects linked to illicit alcohol distribution had been arrested since July 20, while 97 case files had been forwarded to prosecution.
Police had already reported a decline in assault and bodily harm cases earlier in the crackdown. The number fell from 345 in the last two weeks of July to 188 between August 1 and 12.
Authorities have linked illicit and substandard alcoholic drinks to violence, domestic disputes and other public safety concerns.
Local Government Minister Dominique Habimana has also said alcohol abuse contributed to domestic conflicts, school dropouts, unemployment and other problems affecting families and young people.
Health officials have reported serious consequences linked to illicit alcohol consumption. Since the beginning of 2026, more than 50 people had died, over 100 had lost their sight and more than 500 had sought medical treatment after consuming unsafe alcoholic drinks.
RADIOTV10