A suspect has been arrested in connection with the killing of Chantal Muhongerwa, a 47-year-old mother of four and survivor of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The arrest follows a brutal attack that took place on the night of Friday, April 4, 2025, in Kanzenze Cell, Ntarama Sector, Bugesera District.
Muhongerwa was attacked with knives and other traditional weapons while returning home.
Her body was discovered the following morning between the villages of Cyeru and Kabaha.
The incident has shocked the local community and saddened many across the country, especially as it occurred just days before Rwanda marks the 31st anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Local residents described the murder as particularly cruel. “She might have been killed with knives or similar weapons,” said one resident. “There was blood along the path where her body had been dragged.”
The death initially raised fears that it may have been connected to her identity as a genocide survivor.
However, Bugesera District Mayor Richard Mutabazi stated that preliminary findings suggest the motive may have been financial.
“Someone was indeed killed last night—it’s not a rumor. But the early information indicates the suspect was after money she had borrowed from a bank. Investigations are still ongoing.”
Authorities and residents noted that such violent crimes are rare in the Ntarama area, which is generally considered peaceful.
