Gitega : a young man found hanged in Higiro, residents dispute the official version

SOS Médias Burundi

Gitega, December 3, 2025 — The lifeless body of 28-year-old Jules Ndayikeza was found hanged inside his house, under the rafters, in Higiro village, in the district and province of Gitega, central Burundi. The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.

Sixte Niyimbona, the chief of Higiro village, confirmed the discovery and indicated that the cause of death is not yet established, suggesting it could be a suicide.

However, some residents of the village dispute this version. They believe the victim was killed elsewhere before being placed there to make it appear as though he had committed suicide. According to these witnesses, Jules Ndayikeza was allegedly murdered in the context of family disputes, and they are calling for independent investigations so that the perpetrators can be brought to justice.

Village chief Niyimbona specifies that no suspect has been apprehended so far. The victim was buried the same day.