Karusi: Three Killed in Grenade Attack in Bibara, Seven Suspects in Custody

SOS Médias Burundi
Karusi, June 18, 2025 — A deadly grenade attack claimed the lives of three members of the same family on the night of Thursday, June 12, in Bibara hill, Mutumba commune, in Burundi’s central-eastern province of Karusi. Seven individuals have been arrested, and local authorities suspect a possible link to a land dispute.

The suspects — Ezechiel Nkurikiye, Emmanuel Ruterintimba, Gabriel Mudende, Timothée Simbananiye, Angelus Ntomoka, Hamuduni Basabe, and Pascal Kubwimana — were apprehended on Tuesday, June 17, at their respective homes by police, with support from local administrative officials. They are currently being held at the Karusi provincial police station for further investigation.

A Family Targeted

The tragedy occurred around 11:00 p.m. on June 12, when a grenade was thrown into the home of Jean Berchmans Bavumiragiye on Bibara hill. The blast killed his wife, Sylvie Ngabireyimana, 31, and their two daughters, Élissa Nibiturinda and Ineza.

Jean Berchmans himself, estimated to be around 35 years old, and another daughter, Éliane Nishemezwe, were seriously injured and rushed to a local health center.

Motive Still Unclear

Antoine Bigirimana, the local chief of Bibara, confirmed the events and stated that the motive behind the attack remains unclear. However, a possible land conflict is being seriously considered by local authorities.

Family members of the victims, still reeling from the loss, are demanding an independent and transparent investigation and calling for the prosecution of those responsible.

A Community in Mourning

A judicial investigation is underway, while the Bibara community remains in shock. The attack has once again highlighted the persistent and often deadly nature of land disputes in some regions of Burundi.