A serious alert has been raised regarding the situation of detainees at the Municipal Police Station of Bujumbura, commonly known as the BSR, which operates under the authority of Police Commissioner Colonel Édouard Mukoko. Consistent sources report extremely concerning detention conditions, marked by critical overcrowding and serious violations of human rights.
According to gathered information, the BSR facilities, divided into sections for men, women, and children, are severely overcrowded. Many detainees reportedly have no case files, suggesting they were arbitrarily arrested and then forgotten. Some are said to spend the night standing due to lack of space.
Sanitary conditions are described as alarming: no access to water, toilets that are out of service due to overflow, and widespread unsanitary conditions accompanied by unbearable odors. This situation raises fears for the lives of detainees if no urgent action is taken.
Furthermore, several testimonies point to systematic corruption practices. It is alleged that mass arrests are carried out across various neighborhoods, including within households and among street children. Those arrested are reportedly taken to the BSR, where their release depends on the payment of bribes.
Sources claim that these practices occur with the alleged complicity of the head of the BSR, Police Colonel Édouard Mukoko, who is accused of tolerating, or even encouraging, these arrests in order to generate illicit financial gain. Despite the already overcrowded conditions, law enforcement authorities reportedly continue to bring in new detainees, further worsening an already critical situation.
Some officers on site have expressed concern about the risk of loss of life if urgent measures are not taken.
In light of this situation, an urgent appeal is being made to the Ministry of Justice and other relevant authorities to intervene without delay, improve detention conditions, and put an end to the alleged practices.