Plainclothes agents have arrested several individuals, including motorcycle taxi operators, in the locality of Musaga (Musaga Zone, Mugere Commune, Bujumbura Province). Other citizens are raising concerns and denouncing what they consider to be cases of injustice.
According to information provided by local residents, the situation dates back to a recent period during which an Imbonerakure member named Régis, who is said to present himself as operating within the offices of the Presidency, allegedly acted in collaboration with other known Imbonerakure members, including Cedrick Ishimwe. They are accused of targeting motorcycle transport operators and demanding money from them.
These individuals are also reportedly often accompanied by a soldier identified as Aimé, based in Musaga, who claims to work within military intelligence services.
It is further reported that they travel in a pickup vehicle said to belong to a police officer, Colonel of Police Josias, who is alleged to work within the Presidency and to frequently interact with these Imbonerakure members. This vehicle is reportedly used to visit motorcycle taxi parking areas, particularly the site known as “kwa Ruhara,” where riders are allegedly instructed to pay money under the claim that the orders come from higher authorities.
Motorcyclists who refuse to pay are allegedly accused of various offenses, including failing to properly conduct fuel transport activities, which is then used as a basis for their arrest.
This situation is perceived by residents as a form of organized abuse and extortion affecting citizens who are trying to earn a living through motorcycle transport.
On Friday, 26/12/2025, according to the same sources, the Imbonerakure group led by Régis reportedly returned to the motorcycle parking area in the same vehicle. They allegedly demanded payments but faced resistance from most of those present. Following this refusal, three motorcyclists were arrested and transferred to detention at the Musaga zone office, accused of illegal fuel trade.
As of now, those individuals are still being held in the Musaga zone detention facility. Their relatives and fellow riders are calling for their release, stating that they are victims of injustice. They are also calling for an end to intimidation and abusive practices targeting citizens who rely on motorcycle transport to earn a living.