Prosecution seeks life sentence for 'serial killer' Kazungu as he enters guilty plea

Denis Kazungu, the alleged serial killer who is facing 10 charges including murder and rape, appeared before the Nyarugenge Intermediate Court on Friday, February 9. ALSO READ: Kicukiro: How alleged serial killer picked his victims The defendant appeared in court clad in a prison-issued pink shirt and shorts, accompanied by his lawyer Faustin Murangwa. During the hearing on February 9, the prosecution detailed Kazungu's alleged crimes, noting that in April last year, Kazungu rented a house in Kicukiro District, Kanombe sector, and remained a resident there until September 5, 2023, when local authorities and security personnel were forced to intervene after he had issues with his landlord. The intervention began after the landlord reported him over failure to meet rental payments and his refusal to vacate the premises and on accessing the property, there was a stench that prompted a search that discovered human bodies. Furthermore, prosecution disclosed that upon his arrest, he confessed to investigative authorities that he had killed and buried 13 people in that house. An immediate investigation was initiated, leading to the discovery of the bodies. ALSO READ: How three women escaped death at the hands of Busanza ‘serial killer’ Kazungu The prosecution asserted that the defendant told investigators some of the names of his victims like Eliane Mbabazi, Eric Turatsinze, Francoise, and Clementine. In instances of torture, the prosecution presented evidence of inhumane acts committed by Kazungu, supported by images of tools used for torture, and also victims who managed to escape testified to the brutality, with Kazungu justifying his actions as a means to force surrender. Regarding the rape charges, prosecution said they were validated by a victim's testimony who had experienced assault at the hands of Kazungu. The accused also admitted to burying bodies in his kitchen, accompanied by photographs illustrating the scenes. Other charges included theft, threats, and locking up victims. Kazungu allegedly stole from and threatened individuals, even going as far as tying some up for days. The prosecution provided written testimony from a victim confirming the threats made by the accused. ALSO READ: 10 things that stood out in 'serial killer' Kazungu’s trial On the charge of willingly demolishing a house, the prosecution said that Kazungu admitted to destroying doors and digging a hole in a rented house in Busanza. He further faces charges of forgery for using a fake identity, supported by a property owner's written testimony. The prosecution also accused Kazungu of unauthorized access to victims' phones and using them to lure additional victims. The accused pleaded guilty to all charges, expressing remorse for his actions and asking for forgiveness. In his statement, Kazungu claimed that he was not forced into admitting guilt, emphasizing that he had provided sufficient information during two interrogations. He acknowledged committing atrocious crimes but denied poverty as a motive, expressing regret for the damage caused to families and the Rwandan community. While the prosecution is seeking the highest penalty of a life sentence and a fine of Rwf 10 million, Kazungu pleaded for a lesser sentence and asked for forgiveness. He asserted not to commit any more crimes, recognizing the profound impact on the affected families and the broader Rwandan community.

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Prosecution seeks life sentence for 'serial killer' Kazungu as he enters guilty plea