‘Be One Gin’ Factory Owner Arrested Over Alleged Dangerous Alcohol Production

KIGALI - Habumugisha Jean Paul, owner of Roots Investment Group, the company behind ‘Be One Gin’, has been arrested as authorities investigate allegations that his products endanger public health. His case has been forwarded to the Prosecution Service as investigators gather evidence for formal charges, officials confirmed.

The arrest follows Operation ‘Usalama XI’, conducted between October 15-17, 2025, which targeted unsafe alcohol production across the country.

Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, spokesperson for the National Bureau of Investigation (RBI), told IGIHE, “It is true that Habumugisha Jean Paul, owner of the ‘Be One Gin’ factory, has been arrested and his case has been forwarded to the Prosecution Service. He is suspected of producing drinks that can kill or endanger life.”

Habumugisha is currently held at the Rusororo RIB Station. He faces charges under Article 115 of the Rwandan Penal Code, which criminalizes the distribution of substances that may cause illness or incapacitation, even if there was no intent to kill.

If convicted, he could face two to three years in prison and a fine ranging from 300,000 to 500,000 Rwandan francs. Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution when consuming unregulated alcohol products.