King Umurundi Freedom expresses its deep concern over the kidnapping of a young Burundian citizen, Thierry Niyomwungere, which occurred in the early hours of the morning on September 26, 2025, in the heart of the capital, Bujumbura.
According to information gathered, Thierry Niyomwungere, 24, lived in Gikoto, in the Musaga neighborhood of Bujumbura. Originally from Rugero hill, formerly part of Gisozi commune in Mwaro province, he is now registered under Mwaro commune, Gitega province, in line with the country’s new administrative restructuring.
Circumstances of the Abduction
According to multiple witnesses, three men in civilian clothing—believed to be agents of the National Intelligence Service (SNR)—arrived at his residence around 5:00 a.m. They allegedly forced him out of the house, violently subdued him, and took him away in a vehicle parked nearby.
The vehicle was described as a white double-cab pickup truck with tinted windows and no license plates.
Since this forceful arrest, no reliable information has been provided regarding his whereabouts or the reasons for his abduction. His family, deeply shaken, fears for his safety and is demanding immediate clarification.
Urgent Call from Human Rights Defenders
In the face of this alarming disappearance, King Umurundi Freedom issues a solemn appeal to the Burundian authorities—particularly the security services and the National Independent Human Rights Commission (CNIDH)—to intervene without delay.
“We demand full transparency regarding this abduction, that Mr. Thierry Niyomwungere be located as quickly as possible, and that his physical integrity and fundamental rights be fully protected,” said a spokesperson for the organization.
The organization reminds the authorities that enforced disappearance constitutes a grave violation of fundamental rights, contrary to the Constitution of Burundi and the country’s international human rights commitments.
Context and Growing Concerns
This latest incident comes amid an atmosphere of fear and intimidation that is increasingly alarming for human rights defenders in Burundi. Several similar cases have been reported in recent months, with no transparent investigations carried out.
King Umurundi Freedom calls on the national and international community to closely monitor the situation and support efforts to uncover the truth and deliver justice for victims of enforced disappearances.