Bumba Hill, in Camazi Zone, Gisagara Commune (Cankuzo Province), is in shock following the violent death of NSHIMIRIMANA Léonard, aged 28.
Originally from Munyinya Hill in Gisuru Commune (Ruyigi Province), he had been living in Bumba for some time. Married and a father of two children, he leaves behind a deeply affected family.
🔶 Arrest at His Home
According to consistent local sources, the events date back to February 1, 2025, between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. Léonard was reportedly arrested at his home by local administrative officials accompanied by members of the Imbonerakure.
The administrative officials cited in the case are:
● NDAYIRAGIJE Ferdinand, deputy head of Bumba Hill;
● NAYIGIHUGU Fabien, secretary of the CNDD-FDD party on the hill;
● NZIRUBUSA Samson, head of the CNDD-FDD grassroots council in a sub-hill;
● NDUWAYO Edouard, a veterinary officer working on the hill.
The Imbonerakure members mentioned are:
● NTAKIMUSUZUMA Casimir, head of the Imbonerakure on the hill;
● BIZIMANA Déo, nicknamed Bambara;
● NKUNZIMANA Athanase, an Imbonerakure leader of the Kumuka sub-hill (agacimbiri).
The victim was allegedly accused of stealing 30,000 Tanzanian shillings from Burundian citizens who had recently returned from Tanzania and were reportedly robbed on their way home. According to testimonies collected, Léonard denied any involvement and stated that he had no knowledge of the theft.
🔶 Violence and Death
According to the same sources, after his arrest, he was reportedly taken to a forest near the Tanzanian border.
There, he is said to have been subjected to severe physical violence, which resulted in his death the same day. His body was allegedly thrown into an abandoned gold mining pit.
Three Imbonerakure Detained, Administrative Officials Not Arrested
Following public attention surrounding the case, three Imbonerakure — NTAKIMUSUZUMA Casimir, BIZIMANA Déo, and NKUNZIMANA Athanase — were reportedly arrested and are currently being held in detention at the Cankuzo police station.
However, the administrative officials named in the testimonies have not, at this stage, been arrested.
This situation has sparked strong reactions among the local population. Many residents believe that the investigation should include all individuals mentioned in the case, regardless of their position. They are calling for the administrative officials allegedly involved to also be arrested and detained so that full light can be shed on the tragedy.
🔶 Call for Fair Justice
The death of NSHIMIRIMANA Léonard continues to generate deep emotion in the region. Residents are calling for an independent, transparent, and impartial investigation to establish responsibilities fairly and ensure that justice is served.