The Rwanda National Police (RNP) in the Eastern Province has confirmed that officers shot and killed a suspect identified as Dukuzumuremyi Eric, who was accused of murdering a motorcycle taxi rider and stealing his motorcycle. The suspect was apprehended in Nyagatare District before the incident occurred.
According to police, Dukuzumuremyi was shot on 7 January 2026 while being escorted by officers from Kirehe District to locations where he had allegedly hidden stolen items. When they reached Cyunuzi, the area where the victim was killed, the suspect reportedly attempted to flee. Police then shot him, and he died at the scene.
The murder case came to light on the morning of 1 January 2026, when residents discovered the body of Nsengiyumva Emmanuel, a motorcycle taxi rider, in a rice field. The discovery was reported to the Police, who immediately launched investigations to identify and track down those responsible for his death.
The Eastern Province Police spokesperson, SP Twizeyimana Hamdun, said Dukuzumuremyi was a known repeat offender involved in robbing members of the public. He explained that after the suspect was arrested, he was taken to point out places where stolen property had been hidden, but attempted to escape during the operation, prompting police to take decisive action.
“After killing the motorcycle rider, Police, working together with citizens, launched a search operation that led to his arrest. This morning, while he was showing officers where he had hidden stolen items, he tried to run away. Police shot him, and he died,” SP Twizeyimana said.
He also warned young people against engaging in criminal activities and urged them to earn a living through honest work. SP Twizeyimana stressed that crime is punishable by law and that Police, in collaboration with local leaders and the public, remain vigilant and committed to bringing offenders to justice.
Residents of Gatore Sector in Kirehe District, particularly motorcycle taxi operators, welcomed the arrest of the suspect, saying it reassured them that security organs are alert and responsive.
One resident, Seminega Elias, said Police and investigators arrived in the morning with the suspect to show where stolen items were hidden, but he attempted to flee and was shot. “This reassured us that the authorities are watching over our security,” he said.
Another resident, Mukandanga Luise, expressed relief following the suspect’s death, noting that the community had been living in fear. “We now feel safer knowing the person who killed Emmanuel has been dealt with. We thank the Police and ask them to continue ensuring security,” she said.
The body of Nsengiyumva Emmanuel has been taken to Kirehe District Hospital for post-mortem examination, while other suspected accomplices remain in custody at Kirehe Police Station.
Under Rwandan law, specifically Law No. 68/2018 of 30 August 2018, intentional murder is punishable by life imprisonment upon conviction, as provided for under Article 108 of the Penal Code.
