A new act of mob justice has cast a shadow over Rukinga village, in the district and province of Rumonge (southwestern Burundi), where a man was violently beaten by residents after being accused of theft. His right arm was amputated. The victim is receiving treatment at a hospital in the provincial town center.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

Désiré Ndikuriyo, a 35-year-old man, was arrested by unidentified individuals during the night of Tuesday to Wednesday. After being severely beaten, his right arm was amputated before his dying body was dumped in a cassava field. On Wednesday morning, he was evacuated by local authorities to the provincial hospital where he is receiving treatment. This is the second victim of mob justice in the space of a week in this region.

A worrying rise in violence

Administration and police authorities are aware of this upsurge in violence, but remain largely passive, according to several observers. Last week, another person, also suspected of theft, suffered a similar fate, but the perpetrators were not found.

Some residents point the finger at the young Imbonerakure, affiliated with the ruling CNDD-FDD party. These youths patrol neighborhoods every night as part of joint security committees, claiming to support law enforcement in protecting citizens. However, reports suggest they may be involved in the extrajudicial execution of suspected thieves, sowing fear among the local population.

Impunity in question

The authorities’ lack of response to these crimes is raising growing concerns. The population is wondering if these acts of violence will become the norm and if official justice will one day be served to the victims.

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A fishing port in the district of Rumonge where Désiré Ndikuriyo was violently attacked by unknown assailants (SOS Médias Burundi)