The arrested suspects have been identified as Zayirwa Jean Marie Vianney (30), Havugiyaremye Innocent (37), Ndayishimiye Phenias (34), Habimana Rachid (31), and Ukwigize Obedi (30).
The incident occurred in Gasabo District, Remera Sector, Nyarutarama Cell, specifically in Gishushu Village.
The suspects are facing charges including forming or joining a criminal gang, theft using force or threats, and aggravated theft.
RIB Spokesperson, Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, confirmed that the crime took place on January 29, 2025.
"On January 29, 2025, a Chinese national reported a robbery in which more than Frw50 million, two laptops, a mobile phone, a checkbook, and a passport were stolen," stated Dr. Murangira.
Following investigations, RIB arrested the five suspects and recovered part of the stolen funds.
Among the recovered items were Frw7,597,700, $17,212, 110 Chinese Yuan, 39,900 Burundian Francs, and various other currencies. The total value of the recovered funds exceeded Frw31.5 million. Additionally, the victim regained possession of his laptops, mobile phone, and camera.
The suspects are currently being held at the RIB station in Kicukiro. Their case was officially submitted to court on February 19, 2025.
RIB has extended its gratitude to individuals who provided crucial information leading to the arrests. Dr. Murangira reiterated RIB's commitment to combating crime.
"RIB reminds individuals engaging in criminal activities that they will not succeed. We, alongside other law enforcement agencies, remain committed to fighting crimes such as forming or joining criminal gangs, theft using force, and robbery. We encourage the public to report any suspicious activities. Criminal acts will not be tolerated, and offenders will be brought to justice," he stated.
According to Article 224 of the Rwandan Penal Code, forming or joining a criminal gang carries a prison sentence ranging from seven to ten years.
Theft involving force or threats, as per Article 168, is punishable by a prison term of five to seven years and a fine between Frw3,000,000 and 5,000,000.
Simple theft, under Article 166, is subject to imprisonment of one to two years, a fine between Frw1,000,000 and 2,000,000, or six months of community service, or a combination of these penalties.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rib-recovers-over-frw31-million-stolen-from-chinese-national
