Rwanda National Police confirmed the arrest of one of three suspects seen in a viral video attacking a woman during a robbery that took place in Nyarugenge Sector, Nyarugenge District, on the evening of Thursday, September 11.
The incident occurred around 8:30 PM in Rwampara Village, where three individuals armed with machetes assaulted a woman, stealing her mobile phone and 32,000 Rwandan Francs (approximately $26 USD). A member of the local night patrol team, known as Irondo, who attempted to help the woman, was also seriously injured.
According to city officials, the Irondo team managed to intervene, though one of its members sustained severe injuries in the process. The injured woman was taken to Rwampara Health Center, while the Irondo member was first treated at Nyarugenge Hospital and later transferred to the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK).
Police are actively searching for the remaining two suspects believed to have been involved in the attack. Residents in the area reported that similar incidents have occurred in the past, although this one received wider attention because it was captured on video.
Security authorities stressed that criminal behavior of this kind will not be tolerated and that coordinated efforts with other agencies are ongoing to combat robbery and violence in communities. City officials also highlighted the availability of legal economic opportunities in Rwanda and encouraged individuals to pursue productive paths rather than turning to crime.Sources: Radio One and The New Times