The suspects allegedly killed the woman identified as Clementine Mukandekezi, who lived alone in her home in Munazi Cell, Save Sector, Gisagara District.
The suspects are said to have broke into Mukandekezi's house, raped her, and then murdered her before stealing some of her belongings.
During the attack, Mukandekezi screamed for help, alerting neighbors who immediately contacted the police.
Witnesses reported that Mukandekezi called out the name of one of the suspects during the assault.
Police responded around 1 a.m. after hearing the commotion. Neighbors used the sector leader's vehicle to rush Mukandekezi to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Three suspects were initially arrested and detained at Save Police Station. However, by 5:30 a.m., it was discovered that they had escaped by digging through the wall of their cell and removing bricks.
Rwanda National Police Spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga confirmed the incident, saying the suspects identified as Nshimiyimana Eric, 22, and Nshimiyimana Innocent, 20, fled the station by digging a hole in the wall.
"After the escape was noticed, we launched a search operation. At around 12:30 p.m., a police officer encountered two of them in hiding. They resisted arrest, and the officer shot them. The third suspect, Gabiro Jean de Dieu, was apprehended," ACP Rutikanga explained.
An investigation is underway to determine how the suspects managed to escape from custody and to uncover the motive behind their heinous crime against Mukandekezi.
IGIHE has learnt that one of the suspects, Nshimiyimana Innocent, had recently been released from prison where he was serving a two-year sentence for theft. He had been allowed to complete the remainder of his sentence outside prison.
ACP Rutikanga commended the residents for reporting the incident to the authorities and aiding in the search.
"We appreciate the residents' cooperation in reporting the crime and providing information that led to the apprehension of the suspects. We assure Rwandans that the police will continue to pursue anyone who commits crimes and tries to evade justice. Ensuring the safety of Rwandans is our duty," he said.
He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report anyone involved in criminal activities to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
IGIHE
