Kigali: Two Foreign Nationals Arrested After Assaulting Motorcycle Taxi Rider
The Rwanda National Police Spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga, has confirmed that two foreign nationals who were seen assaulting a motorcycle taxi rider have been arrested.
The incident took place in the Gisozi area, commonly known as Gasave. Videos circulating on social media showed the two foreigners in a confrontation with the moto rider, including moments where they appeared to be beating him.
The two suspects are being detained at the Kimironko Police Station as authorities determine the appropriate course of action.
Speaking briefly to IGIHE, ACP Rutikanga said that following their arrest, other relevant institutions will make a final decision regarding the two students from South Sudan.
He stated, “Those who participated in this assault have been arrested and are currently detained at Kimironko Police Station to undergo the proper procedures. We arrested the two individuals seen in the incident, and they are being processed. The final decision will not be made by the police but by other institutions.”
Possible actions include deportation, prosecution under Rwandan law without deportation, or prosecution followed by deportation.
ACP Rutikanga emphasized that national institutions remain vigilant and will continue to follow up on crimes committed by anyone in Rwanda — whether citizens or foreign nationals.
He noted that despite public claims that violence involving foreign nationals has become difficult to control, institutions have strengthened efforts to address it, particularly in cases involving students from South Sudan.
He said, “These are people here for education. The national and local authorities are doing their work — it is not something that has become unmanageable as some claim. When they commit acts of violence, they are apprehended. And someone does not announce in advance that they are about to fight so you can stop it.”
He added, “Just like any Rwandan resident, anyone who commits assault, theft, robbery or any form of violence is punished according to the law. If the person is a foreign national, a decision may also be made to deport them — and that is done.”
In June 2025, the Rwanda National Police announced that in the previous 12 months, 64 foreign nationals had been deported for crimes related to assault and battery, while more than 240 others had been handed over to judicial authorities for various offences.
Cases of violence involving foreign students — especially those from South Sudan — continue to be reported. Many are said to be involved in misconduct including alcohol abuse, assault, physical altercations and theft.
Rwanda remains one of the countries that has opened its doors to foreign nationals, whether they come for investment opportunities or academic pursuits.