Gitega : a conflict over theft ends in murder among the Batwa minority group

SOS Mëdias Burundi

Gitega, July 7, 2025 – In Gitega (central Burundi), a conflict over the sharing of stolen goods turned tragic within the Batwa community. A quarrel between three people cost the life of a 30-year-old man, prompting a violent response from the victim’s relatives. The incident highlights the internal tensions and criminal abuses that plague some marginalized communities.

A conflict over the sharing of presumed stolen goods turned tragic Sunday evening in Kibogoye village, Buhinda zone, in Gitega district and province. Dunia, a 30-year-old man, lost his life after being violently beaten.

According to witnesses, the victim was fatally beaten with clubs by Joseph Nzokirantevye, 58 years old, assisted by his wife, Angélique Ntirabampa, 48 years old. All three are from the Batwa community. The altercation reportedly erupted following a disagreement over the division of stolen goods.

Kibogoye village chief Simeon Ntawuyamara confirmed the incident to SOS Médias Burundi. He stated that Dunia and Joseph Nzokirantevye were known locally as notorious bandits. “This conflict between them escalated into a fatal beating,” he said.

Tensions quickly spread within the community. Batwa close to the victim targeted the suspected murderer, inflicting serious injuries. Joseph Nzokirantevye and his wife were rushed to the Itaba district hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.

According to the village authorities, Dunia was buried that same evening, following the report of the Judicial Police Officer (OPJ) and on the instructions of local administration authorities. A judicial investigation has been opened to shed light on this tragedy.