Why Does Police Violence Go Unpunished in Burundi? Who Protects Uniformed Abusers?
The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, December 10, 2025, on Muzenga Hill, Rutovu Zone, Bururi Commune (Burunga Province). Gérard CISHAHAYO, 44, a night watchman at a local site known as “Mukato,” was violently assaulted by police officer Philbert IRANKUNDA, AP2, badge number CAP 5212/APN 25113, assigned to the communal police station.
🔶️ Unprovoked and Brutal Violence
Around 7:00 PM, as night was falling, Gérard was using his phone’s light to see. He crossed paths with Philbert IRANKUNDA, who accused him of “aiming the light at him.” Without warning, the officer attacked him, beating him with a baton. Gérard attempted to defend himself, but the officer struck his arm with such force that the bone was fractured. The officer also confiscated his phone.
🔶️ Alerted Neighbors, A Life Saved by a Hair
Injured, Gérard managed to scream for help. His cries alerted nearby residents who rushed to the scene. Their swift intervention forced the officer to flee, likely saving Gérard’s life, as he was left on the ground, bleeding. Neighbors urgently transported him to the hospital. After several local attempts at care, he was transferred to Kibuye Hospital (Gitega), where he remains in intensive care.
🔶️ Lies and Impunity: A Familiar Strategy
Following public outrage, the police hierarchy announced that the officer would be detained in Bururi. But this was a lie. In reality, Philbert IRANKUNDA was simply transferred to another post. No investigation, no suspension, and no prosecution followed. This well‑known strategy of cover‑up fuels a deep sense of injustice and impunity.
🔶️ An Abandoned Victim with No Means for Treatment
Gérard, a humble night watchman, has neither insurance nor stable income. His fracture is severe, his medical costs are high, and the State remains silent. He is left to struggle alone, without compensation or support, despite being assaulted by a State agent.
King Umurundi Freedom:
– strongly condemns this unacceptable assault;
– demands the immediate arrest of Philbert IRANKUNDA and that he be brought to justice;
– calls for Gérard to receive proper medical care and follow‑up.
Justice cannot operate at two speeds. Wearing a uniform does not give anyone the right to torture those they are meant to protect.