Burundi: Police officer beaten by imbonerakure in Rumonge

According to information collected from local sources, the attack took place at around 11:00 p.m. The victim was identified as Eric Hamenyimana, commonly known as Dogodogo, a police officer originally from Mutambara Hill, where he resides.

Witnesses reported that the officer was forcibly taken from his home before being brutally beaten by a group of Imbonerakure allegedly led by the local hill chief, Masabo Réverien, who is cited as the main instigator of the assault.

Preliminary information suggests that the incident may have originated from a domestic or family-related dispute. However, the exact circumstances remain unclear, especially given the alleged involvement of local administrative authorities and ruling-party militants.

The attack caused widespread fear among local residents, who watched helplessly as the police officer was severely beaten. Several community members issued urgent calls for help, prompting the intervention of police officers from the Rumonge police commissariat, who arrived after the victim had already suffered serious injuries.

This incident has renewed concerns about the role of the Imbonerakure in acts of violence and intimidation against civilians and even members of the security forces. As of now, no official statement has been issued by local or judicial authorities.

Residents of the area are calling for an independent investigation to establish accountability and ensure justice is served.