Five arrested over Nyanza grenade attack

SOUTHERN PROVINCE RUHANGO - Police in Ruhango is holding five suspects in connection to an attack that happened over the weekend, when an unidentified assailant lobbed a grenade into a crowded market in Nyanza District.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

SOUTHERN PROVINCE

RUHANGO - Police in Ruhango is holding five suspects in connection to an attack that happened over the weekend, when an unidentified assailant lobbed a grenade into a crowded market in Nyanza District.

At least 5 people have been confirmed dead and over 52 seriously injured. 

The attack happened on the evening of Friday 25 September around 4pm, according to eyewitnesses. The motive of the attack has not been known yet.

A rescue operation was mounted by the security personnel who rushed the injured to Kabgayi, Gitwe and Butare University hospitals where they are recovering according to police sources.

On Sunday, the Acting Police Commissioner, Mary Gahonzire visited the area to convey her condolences to the families of the deceased.

Speaking after the visit, the police chief called on the residents to be security cautious and report any case of insecurity.   

Dancilla Akimanimpaye, one of the witnesses said the grenade exploded in the middle of the market and all she heard was the blast and many people stained with blood.

Mwendo Sector leader, Valence Hakizimana has described the scenario as a surprise and called on residents to provide information that could help in apprehending the suspects.

The names of the arrested suspects couldn’t be easily available by press time.

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