Ruyigi and Butaganzwa : a wave of bloody murders amid witchcraft accusations, five dead in a few days

SOS Médias Burundi

Ruyigi, April 14, 2026 — The districts of Ruyigi and Butaganzwa, in Buhumuza province in the east of the small East African nation, have been shaken by a series of deadly attacks that have left five dead in just a few days, according to several local sources. Three of these cases are reportedly linked to accusations of witchcraft, another to a domestic dispute, while the circumstances of a fifth death remain unclear.

According to the same sources, the first case dates back to the night of April 4-5, 2026, in the Kireka sub-village, Gashurushuru village, in the Bwagiriza zone (Ruyigi district). A 42-year-old woman was violently attacked by a neighbor who accused her of witchcraft. Armed with a hoe, the alleged perpetrator inflicted fatal blows. The victim succumbed to her injuries after being transferred to the Kayongozi health center. The suspect subsequently surrendered to the authorities.

On the same day, Easter Sunday afternoon, another death was reported in the Sanzu neighborhood, in the Ruyigi district town center. A teacher, Claude Busabusa, 41 years old, died after a verbal altercation with a neighbor who also accused him of witchcraft. The exact circumstances of this death remain unclear, but it has contributed to reigniting tensions in the area.

Furthermore, on the night of April 5-6, a third murder was recorded. A 26-year-old man, identified as Éloge Nduwimana, was stabbed to death by a group of young men after being ambushed. Unlike the previous cases, this murder is believed to be linked to a domestic dispute, according to local sources.

In Butaganzwa district, two more bodies were discovered in Caragata village. One was found inside his home, the other on his way back. Initial reports indicate that these deaths may also be linked to accusations of witchcraft, although the victims’ identities have not yet been officially confirmed.

These incidents have created a climate of fear and anxiety among the local population. Many residents are denouncing a resurgence of violence and warning of the rise of vigilante justice, particularly in cases related to witchcraft.

“What’s frightening isn’t just the murders, but also the way some people take the law into their own hands,” confides a resident of Ruyigi town center.

Local administrative authorities are calling for calm and warning against any form of vigilante justice, reminding everyone that anyone suspected of a crime must be brought before the proper authorities.

Security forces indicate that investigations are underway and promise to strengthen security measures to prevent further tragedies.

Faced with this situation, many are calling for awareness campaigns against accusations of witchcraft and for the promotion of peaceful resolution of family conflicts.