Rwanda Investigation Bureau on Tuesday, December 29 confirmed the arrest of the Executive Secretary of Mukindo sector in Gisagara district over intentional assault and battery that could have led to the death of the victim. Speaking to The New Times, Thierry Murangira, the Spokesperson of RIB reiterated that the information provided by citizens accused the official of intentional assault which allegedly led to his death. “RIB Gisagara station was provided with the information of the death of Etienne, but it was linked to the previous incident when he was assaulted by one of the local leaders,” he confirmed. “Before his death, the victim was beaten resulting in injuries that might have caused his demise two days later”. He adds that the information was provided by residents of the village. How did it happen? According to eyewitnesses, on Christmas day, Etienne Musabyemahoro, a 15-year old boy was attacked by the Executive Secretary of the sector, Jerome Tumusifu and beaten. The infliction came after he was allegedly seen throwing stones at the official’s car which was on a routine patrol to monitor where residents were observing Covid-19 guidelines. The incident took place in Muganza sector which is close to Mukindo sector that Jerome heads. After two days, Etienne passed away, and it is suspected that his death might be related to the assault he had experienced, but an autopsy is yet to be carried to determine cause of death, according to Murangira. The grassroot official admitted to the assault, according to RIB, but does not agree that it led to the death of the victim. If convicted, he will be sentenced a jail term of 15 to 20 years and a fine of Rwf 5 to 7 million.
