Practices attributed to certain police officers along the Bujumbura–Bubanza road, particularly in the areas of Rubirizi and Gikoma, are causing serious concern among local residents. The safety and lives of road users require urgent attention.
Citizens travelling by motorcycle report that they regularly encounter police officers operating along this road, particularly around Rubirizi and Gikoma, in Ntahangwa Commune, Bujumbura Province.
According to testimonies collected, some of these police officers stationed in Rubirizi are reportedly under the authority of the Rubirizi police post, headed by Police Lieutenant NTUNGWANAYO Elie. Others operating in Gikoma are reportedly attached to the Kinama police post, headed by Police Lieutenant BARABWIRIZA Jérôme.
The testimonies refer to the use of devices commonly known as “ibitsinga,” which are placed across the road in order to intercept motorcyclists. Citizens denounce this practice, describing it as a means of soliciting or extorting money from them in the form of bribes.
According to these testimonies, the devices are sometimes allegedly hidden around bends or suddenly placed on the road when motorcyclists are approaching. Such practices could cause serious accidents and put road users’ lives at risk.
One recent case has been reported. On September 26, 2026, police officers allegedly placed such a device suddenly across the road at a location commonly known as Mubigazi, in the Rubirizi area. The device reportedly caused a serious accident involving people travelling on a motorcycle.
According to the information reported, the passenger suffered severe injuries to the legs, while the motorcycle rider also sustained serious injuries to the leg. The victims were reportedly taken to hospital by the police officers while they were losing significant amounts of blood.
In response to this situation, citizens are denouncing what they describe as a recurring practice in which road checks are allegedly associated with demands for money from motorcyclists.
They are calling urgently for measures to put an end to any practice that could endanger the lives of road users. They are also calling for the police officers concerned to be removed from this road or, alternatively, for them to receive appropriate instructions and training to ensure that their interventions comply with professional standards and protect the safety of citizens.
Our Position
King Umurundi Freedom strongly condemns any police practice that may put citizens’ lives at risk. We call on the relevant authorities to fully investigate the reported incidents in Rubirizi and Kinama, take the necessary measures, and ensure that road controls are conducted in accordance with the law and with respect for the dignity and safety of road users.
The protection of human life must remain an absolute priority.