Top RDF officers suspended

Four top military officers were on Tuesday suspended and put under house-arrest due to indiscipline, according to a statement from the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF). “The RDF leadership has suspended from duty and placed under house arrest Lt. Gen. Fred Ibingira, Brig. Gen. Richard Rutatina, Brig. Gen. Wilson Gumisiriza, and Col. Dan Munyuza with effect from 17 January 2012,” reads part of the statement signed by the Military and Defence Ministry spokesperson, Col. Joseph Nzabamwita. The four are all suspected of involvement in shady business dealings in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the statement adds. “They are under investigations for acts of indiscipline with respect to getting involved with civilians in business dealings in the DRC.” Col. Nzabamwita told The New Times yesterday, adding that further information will be available “as soon as investigations are concluded.” Lt. Gen. Fred Ibingira was the Chief of Staff of the Reserve Force while Brig. Gen. Rutatina was currently serving as the head of military intelligence. Brig. Gen. Wilson Gumisiriza was a division commander, while Col. Dan Munyuza was the current head of External Intelligence. The RDF is widely known for demanding and maintaining a high level of discipline and continues to be recognised as an exemplary force both regionally and internationally. Rwanda has one of the largest UN peacekeeping contingents. james.karuhanga@newtimes.co.rw

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Top RDF officers suspended