The arrest took place on Sunday, July 20, 2025, following reports that Burikantu had locked up a group of girls who had gone to his home in Kinyinya to discuss potential collaborations on social media content creation.
Sources told IGIHE that the incident began when Burikantu allegedly invited one of the girls into a separate room to discuss how he could support her online presence. When she declined, he reportedly got upset and locked the group inside his house. He then demanded they pay him back for the transport fare and sodas he had provided before he would allow them to leave.
The situation escalated when the girls couldn't meet his demands. After one left, the others contacted the police for help. Officers from Rwanda National Police responded promptly and freed them, leading to Burikantu's arrest shortly after.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Thierry B. Murangira confirmed the incident took place in Kinyinya Sector, Murama Cell, Binunga Village, where the influencer resides.
Burikantu is now being held at the RIB Kinyinya station as investigations continue. His case file is being prepared for submission to the Prosecution in accordance with the law.
The offence he is being investigated for is punishable under Article 151 of Rwanda's penal code, which addresses unlawful confinement. If convicted, he could face between five to seven years in prison.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Murangira said: 'RIB reminds the public that no one has the right to take advantage of others or hold them against their will. Such actions are illegal and will not be tolerated.'
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/social-media-personality-burikantu-arrested
