Karusi : a mother murdered in horrific circumstances

SOS Médias Burundi

Karusi, May 12, 2025 – A 42-year-old mother of four was found dead Sunday evening in an uninhabited house in the Kigoma residential neighborhood, the town center of Karusi province (central-eastern Burundi). The prime suspect, a night watchman at the house, was quickly arrested. Emotions are running high among the local population, shocked by the brutality of the crime.

A horrific scene shook the Kigoma neighborhood on the evening of May 11. Bwajembona, a 42-year-old mother, was lured into an unoccupied house where she was found dead, her body bearing serious injuries on the head and throat. She had also been tied up with a rope, according to police reports.

The crime is believed to have occurred around 9 p.m. Initial investigation findings point to the night watchman who lived in the house. He was arrested shortly after the body was discovered and taken into custody for questioning.

The zone chief confirmed the incident and indicated that the suspect is in police custody for further investigation. The victim, described by her neighbors as calm and undisturbed, leaves behind four children.

The family is demanding swift justice, while the population is calling for increased vigilance and exemplary punishment.

A province marked by recurring violence

For several months, Karusi province has seen a surge in violent acts, ranging from nighttime assaults to targeted assassinations. Residents denounce a lack of security in some neighborhoods, despite the presence of law enforcement. This latest tragedy has renewed calls for better protection for citizens, particularly women.