Rwandan authorities have confirmed the extradition of Gitanga Prince, a key suspect in the violent assault of 19-year-old Burundian national Guy Divin Haberumugabo. Gitanga, who had fled to Uganda after the attack, was handed over to Rwandan officials this Saturday following an international arrest warrant issued through a mutual legal assistance framework.
“Today, Rwanda received Gitanga Prince, who had fled to Uganda after his involvement in the crime of torture committed against Haberumugabo in November 2024,” the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) said in a statement.
The handover took place at the Kagitumba One Stop Border Post, where Rwanda’s delegation, led by Jean Bosco Zingiro Communication Specialist at INTERPOL National Central Bureau – Kigali, coordinated with Ugandan authorities. Uganda’s delegation was led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Otekat Andrew Mike.
Gitanga’s arrest marks a significant step in the case, as he was one of ten individuals implicated in the assault, which took place in Akindege Cell, Kamashashi Village, Kicukiro District. RIB previously stated that the attack was not racially or politically motivated but stemmed from a theft accusation.
RIB spokesperson Thierry B. Murangira said the suspects and the victim had been staying in a rental house during the festive season when a confrontation escalated. “During the gathering, a heated altercation erupted after the group accused Haberumugabo of theft,” Murangira said.
Authorities arrested ten individuals in December, with eight facing formal charges. With Gitanga’s extradition, all identified suspects are now in custody.
“All other eight accomplices linked to the crime are currently under provisional detention pending a court hearing,” RIB stated, warning that fugitives cannot evade justice by fleeing abroad.
