Bururi : a former police officer found dead, his family denounces a murder

SOS Médias Burundi

Bururi, September 5, 2025 – The lifeless body of Athanase Manirakiza, a retired police officer, was discovered early in the morning of Thursday, September 4, in a tripsacum field in Gitwaro village, Bururi district, Burunga province, in southern Burundi. His family suspects a murder, likely motivated by the theft of the money he had just withdrawn.

The usual calm of the Binyuro zone was disturbed when the body of the former law enforcement officer was found about ten meters from the road, abandoned in the vegetation.

According to residents, Athanase Manirakiza had last been seen two days earlier, on Tuesday, September 2, returning from the Gweza post office where he had just withdrawn some money. He had not been seen since.

Suspected murder by strangulation

The victim’s family is suggesting murder. Athanase Manirakiza, who lived alone, was allegedly attacked on his way home. His relatives suspect strangulation. His money was allegedly taken by his attackers.

“We demand that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice,” said a visibly distraught family member.

Investigation underway, but the local community remains silent

Alexis Nijimbere, chief of Gitwaro village, confirmed that an investigation had been opened. The police, accompanied by a doctor, went to the scene to conduct initial assessments.

Some local sources claim that suspects are already known, but that residents are reluctant to testify, fearing reprisals.

A victim known in the community

Athanase Manirakiza was a member of the CNDD-FDD, the ruling party. His death has sparked deep emotion in the region, where he was respected for his career in law enforcement.