Where is he? Where was he taken? Is he still alive?
A Burundian citizen has been reported missing after being arrested by agents of the National Intelligence Service on the morning of 2 April 2025.
The victim is Mr. NKUREMBONE Fidèle, a 46-year-old resident of Maramvya 15 hill, in the area commonly known as Isamariro. He is the father of seven children, a member of the CNL political party, and earns his living as a trader at the local Isamariro market.
Circumstances of the Arrest
On 2 April 2025, at approximately 7:00 a.m., Mr. NKUREMBONE Fidèle left his home to go to the market where he works. After walking about thirty metres, he reached the taxi-bicycle parking area, where a white double-cabin pickup truck bearing registration number GB049 BA was parked.
According to several eyewitnesses, a number of police officers were standing around the vehicle. Among them was a well-known National Intelligence Service officer identified as Athia NDUWIMANA.
Witnesses further stated that an unidentified individual inside the vehicle, who appeared to know Mr. NKUREMBONE Fidèle, pointed him out to the officers, saying: “There he is. Arrest him; he is the one carrying the bag.”
The police officers immediately apprehended Mr. NKUREMBONE Fidèle. He reportedly attempted to resist and hold onto his bag, but was overpowered. He was then forced into the vehicle, which drove away shortly afterwards.
Background
It should be noted that Mr. NKUREMBONE Fidèle had recently returned from Dubai, where he had travelled in 2022 in search of better economic opportunities. He returned to Burundi in December 2024 after falling ill during his stay abroad.
According to information reported by King Umurundi Freedom, he had been closely monitored by intelligence agents while in Dubai. He was allegedly and without any known evidence accused of having joined armed groups operating in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Enforced Disappearance and Growing Concerns
Since his arrest on 2 April 2025, no official information has been provided regarding his whereabouts or his condition. His disappearance has caused deep concern among his family members, neighbours, and relatives.
His family is calling on the security services, the Burundi National Police, and the National Independent Human Rights Commission (CNIDH) to take all necessary measures to establish his whereabouts, clarify the circumstances of his disappearance, and ensure that his fundamental rights are fully respected.