Huye: Around 2060 Bodies of Genocide Victims Discovered on Citizen’s Farm

By The Inspirer.

Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), has reported the discovery of 2,060 bodies in Huye District, believed to be victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis.

The search for these remains spanned from October 3, 2023, to May 30, 2024, resulting in their discovery in Ngoma Sector, Ngoma Cell, Ngoma Village within Huye District.

This location, situated on the border of Ngoma and Matyazo, holds historical significance as it was where the Genocide’s atrocities began, prompting Tutsis to flee to areas like Nyaruguru and Butare.

During the preparations for the 30th Commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsis, the bodies of victims from various regions across the country were uncovered, sometimes necessitating active search efforts due to a lack of volunteered information.

The bodies, totaling 2,060, were found in the fields previously owned by Dusabemariya Seraphine, who had constructed a house and kitchen on her land, and Uwimana Mediatrice, whose land had been under cultivation for years.

Following the discovery, seven individuals were apprehended, including Dusabemariya Seraphine, Uwabega Marie Josée, Musasangohe Mariani, and their father, Hishamunda Jean Baptiste, aged 86.

Additionally, Tuyishime Consolation, a child of Dusabemariya, Habimana Petero, aged 89, and Uwimana Mediatrice, a neighbor of Dusabemariya Seraphine, were also arrested. They all faced prosecution for withholding information regarding the burial sites of Tutsi killed during the 1994 Genocide.

The Ngoma primary Court had initially approved a 30-day temporary detention on November 26, 2023, which was later ratified by the High Court of Huye on January 24, 2024.

“RIB is appealing to the public to provide information about the burial locations of the victims,” emphasized Dr. B. Thierry, RIB’s spokesperson.

“Disclosing such information carries no repercussions, whereas concealing it may lead to legal consequences, including imprisonment.” He added.

Murangira urged individuals engaged in any form of abuse towards Genocide survivors, be it verbal or otherwise, to desist from such actions.

He stressed the importance of Rwandan unity, highlighting that any actions or expressions promoting division, hatred, or Genocide ideology are intolerable and against the nation’s foundational principles.

According to Article 8 of the law addressing Genocide ideology and related crimes, those found guilty may face imprisonment ranging from seven to nine years and fines ranging from 500 thousand to 1 million Rwandan francs.

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