He Confessed to Killing a Genocide Survivor, Explains Why He Beheaded Her

By The Inspirer.

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has revealed that their ongoing investigation indicates that Nziza, who confessed to murdering Nduwamungu Pauline, a survivor of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, beheaded her to conceal his identity.

RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry shared details with the media regarding the murder of Nduwamungu Pauline in Rukumberi Sector, Ngoma District, who was found beheaded. Investigations have identified Nziza as the perpetrator.

 “Following the reported death in Rukumberi Sector, Ngoma District, where Nduwamungu Pauline was murdered and her head severed, RIB and the police collaborated to apprehend several suspects. During interrogation, Nziza admitted to the crime and even led authorities to where he had hidden the head, which he had separated from the body.” he stated. 

Nziza explained during questioning that his actions were influenced by a film he had watched, which suggested that “the image of a murderer remains in the eyes of the victim,” prompting him to remove her head.

Dr. Murangira added that investigations are ongoing to uncover the exact motive behind the murder.

RIB clarified that they cannot confirm nor deny that Nduwamungu Pauline was killed because she was a Genocide survivor, as investigations are still underway.

This incident follows another case in August where Nashamaje Enatha was murdered. Four suspects were arrested and are currently facing court proceedings, having been given a 30-day provisional detention.

In Karongi District, from July to November, 10 cases involving crimes against Genocide survivors were reported, leading to the arrest of 25 suspects.

In Kayonza District, two survivors were killed, and two suspects were apprehended and are now undergoing legal proceedings.

RIB notes that complaints involving the harassment of Genocide survivors often include verbal abuse, physical assault, sending threatening messages, killing livestock, distributing anonymous letters, and other acts targeting survivors.

Between 2019 and 2023, RIB received 2,660 case files related to crimes against Genocide survivors, involving 3,563 suspects.

Harassment of Genocide survivors accounts for 50% of all crimes reported against them, followed by Genocide ideology cases, which make up 21.8%.

Dr. Murangira explained that most harassment cases involve the use of hateful words.
 “During investigations, we often find that such crimes are triggered by factors like drunkenness, disputes over land boundaries, or other conflicts.”

RIB emphasized that no grievance justifies the harassment of another person, as all such acts are punishable by law.

The Bureau continues to encourage the public to foster a culture of peace, reject Genocide ideology, and promote unity and harmony, which are the foundation of Rwanda’s progress.