The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has dismissed rumors suggesting that the recent violent assault on 19-year-old Guy Divin Haberumugabo, a Burundian national, was racially or politically motivated. The agency clarified that the attack stemmed from a theft accusation and was unrelated to the victim’s nationality.
The incident, which occurred earlier this month in Akindege Cell, Kamashashi Village, Kicukiro District, involved a group of young people who severely tortured Haberumugabo. According to RIB, the suspects accused him of stealing three mobile phones and a laptop.
Speaking on TV10’s morning show Zinduka on December 19, RIB spokesperson Thierry B. Murangira explained that the suspects and the victim had been staying in a rental house to celebrate the festive season. During the gathering, a heated altercation erupted after the group accused Haberumugabo of theft.
Murangira confirmed that 10 individuals were arrested between December 13 and 14 in connection with the assault. Eight of them—aged between 19 and 24—face formal charges after evidence linked them to the crime. The suspects include Adolph Uwase Emmanuel (24), Bruce Ikuzwe Emery (21), Kevin Imanzi (21), Vanessa Kirezi (20), Joel Nkubana (20), Jonathan Mugenzi (20), Kevin Kirenga (19), and Marembo Rugema (19).
The attack reportedly took place after the group, allegedly intoxicated, confronted Haberumugabo and accused him of stealing their belongings. The situation escalated, leading to a violent assault that left the victim with severe injuries.
Visual evidence of the incident, shared by the association ARERE-TWIBEKO, shows Haberumugabo receiving medical treatment. Murangira confirmed that the victim is recovering and is expected to be discharged soon.
Investigation Ongoing
Murangira revealed that some suspects managed to flee the scene and remain at large. RIB and the Rwanda National Police are actively pursuing them.
“While in detention, a thorough investigation was conducted to determine each individual’s role in the assault. The findings indicated that eight individuals had irrefutable evidence linking them to the crime,” Murangira said.
The suspects are currently held at the RIB station in Nyarugunga, with their case files forwarded to court. Meanwhile, the Rwanda Forensic Institute is conducting tests to ascertain if any illicit substances were involved in the incident.
Addressing Rumors
RIB refuted claims circulating on social media that the assault was racially or politically motivated. “The victim’s nationality had no bearing on the attack,” said Murangira. “He is a Burundian national in Rwanda for academic purposes, but the torture inflicted on him was unrelated to his origin.”
Murangira emphasized Rwanda’s strict anti-torture laws, referencing Article 14 of the Constitution, which explicitly prohibits torture. Convictions for such crimes carry penalties ranging from 20 to 25 years in prison.
Moving Forward
The RIB spokesperson reassured the public that the victim is receiving the necessary medical care and that justice will be served.
The incident serves as a reminder of Rwanda’s commitment to upholding human rights and its zero-tolerance policy against torture.
