Two men beaten to death in Gitega : land disputes and intoxication suspected

SOS Médias Burundi

Gitega, November 11, 2025 — Two people died following violent attacks this past weekend in Gitega province, in central Burundi. The incidents occurred on Bihanga and Mushikanwa villages, respectively, according to local and police sources.

Death of Thérence Nkunzimana in Bihanga

According to a witness, the tragedy occurred on Sunday, November 9, 2025, around 3:00 PM, when 41-year-old Thérence Nkunzimana was brutally beaten while having a drink in a bar in Bihanga village, in Gitega district and province.

Seriously injured, he was rushed to Sainte Thérèse Hospital in Songa, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The police confirmed the information and indicated that a land dispute was the most likely cause. Two suspected perpetrators, Richard Nininahazwe and Joselyne Nduwimana, were arrested the same day and detained at the Gitega provincial police station for questioning.
The victim’s body was transferred to the Ubuzima Clinic in Gitega.

Another homicide in Mushikanwa

On the same day, another tragedy was reported in Mushikanwa village, in the Bugendana district. According to Pascal Ndereyimana, the village chief, 30-year-old Pascal Nkunzimana was severely beaten around 6:00 P.M. as he was returning home.
He was taken to Mutaho Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

The local chief stated that the assailants allegedly used belts to beat the victim, in a state of intoxication. Three young men were arrested : Janvier Harerimana (21 years old), Thierry Ininahazwe (20 years old), and Elie Nsabimana (18 years old). They are currently held at the Mutaho police station for questioning.

Pascal Nkunzimana’s body was buried on Monday, November 10, 2025.

Growing concerns over violence

These two tragedies have reignited concerns about the rise in crime in Gitega province, where several cases of deadly violence have been reported in recent weeks. Local authorities are calling for vigilance and promising to strengthen security in the villages and in high-risk neighborhoods.