Seven arrested for distributing sexual explicit content

By The Inspirer.

Kwizera Emelyne and a group of eight individuals who formed a WhatsApp group called ‘Rich Gang’ are under investigation by the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), with seven of them being arrested.

They are accused of involvement in the production and distribution of explicit videos showing them engaging in sexual activities. The group consists of six girls and three boys, and the arrests took place on January 17, 2025.

RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry confirmed to IGIHE, stating: “Yes, indeed, we have arrested nine individuals so far, including six girls and three boys who are featured in explicit videos that have been circulating on social media. They are being investigated for offenses including drug use, distributing pornographic material, and public indecency.”

The group members who were arrested and are part of ‘Rich Gang’ include Ishimwe Patrick, Uwineza Nelly Sany, Gihozo Pascaline, Kwizera Emelyne, Uwase Sariha, Uwase Belyse, Shakira Uwase, Rucyahana David, and Banza Julien. Their ages range from 20 to 28. Seven of them are in custody, while two are under investigation but not detained.

The suspects are being held at various RIB stations, including Kicukiro, Gikondo, Remera, Kacyiru, and Kimironko, while their cases are being prepared for submission to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

The individuals in question filmed themselves engaging in sexual activities and shared the videos with men or women in exchange for money. They were the ones who filmed the content.

During their arrest, drug tests revealed that several of the individuals had used cannabis, with THC levels between 55 and 275, while the normal range is between 0 and 20.

RIB has emphasized that young people should understand that social media platforms are not meant for sharing explicit content or committing crimes.

Dr. Murangira added: “Recently, some individuals have been setting up WhatsApp groups to share explicit videos. We urge them to stop, as the law treats all social media platforms as public spaces.”

IGIHE has learned that there are other groups involved in similar activities, such as Kigali VP HOOKS-UPS, VIP Online Sex, House Party Show, Aho bibera 24 hours, Group Sugar Mamy, VIP Online Chart Rwanda, Black Market Group, Honestly VIP Online Sex Chart, and others.

RIB explained that initial investigations have shown that some individuals have turned this activity into a business, distributing pornographic material. Dr. Murangira commented: “This practice must stop, because no one can claim their private photos were leaked, as it involves accomplices.”

The investigation has also revealed that some people have become “matchmakers,” facilitating the spread of explicit content. They would tell others to message them privately if they wanted explicit photos or videos of someone, and some even provided phone numbers. RIB warned that such actions are considered criminal intent and are punishable.

The spread of explicit content is reportedly encouraged by both men and women who promise large sums of money. On January 19, 2025, during a prayer session of thanksgiving for the country’s achievements, President Paul Kagame addressed the issue, stating that it is unacceptable to see people walking on the streets naked, as it goes against cultural values.

He remarked: “I follow things on social media, and there are videos of young people walking around naked on the streets. What does one achieve by being naked? Do we all have nothing? There is no culture that endorses nudity.” He added, “It is not just about being physically naked; there is a mental emptiness that is even more concerning.”

The President further questioned how such behavior could be allowed in Rwandan society, asking, “How can we allow Rwandan families to live like this, even as leaders? What is our responsibility here?”

The individuals involved in public indecency can face a prison sentence ranging from six months to two years if convicted by the court. Those found guilty of distributing explicit images using computers or online platforms face a prison sentence of three to five years, along with a fine of between 1 to 3 million Rwandan Francs. Those involved in drug-related offenses face a sentence of one to two years or community service.

Finally, those accused of recording or distributing conversations and images without consent face a sentence of six months to one year. The crime of sharing explicit material via technology is punishable by six months to two years in prison.

Gihozo Pascaline is one of the seven arrested after appearing in pornographic videos that have been widely circulating on social media.

Ishimwe Patrick, who often goes by the name Bezos, is the founder of the ‘Rich Gang’ WhatsApp group where the distributed videos were shared.

Uwineza Nelly Sany is one of the women featured in the videos that were leaked and has been arrested.

Uwase Belyse is also among those arrested after pornographic videos featuring her were shared.

Uwase Shakira, who appears in the pornographic videos, has been arrested.

Uwase Salha was arrested after pornographic videos featuring her were released.