POLICE UPDATES ON THE KILLING OF JEAN LEONARD RUGAMBAGE

Rwanda National Police has arrested two men suspected in the killing of a local journalist Jean Leonard RUGAMBAGE that occurred on Thursday night.

Jean Leonard Rugambage returned home around 10pm on 24 June 2010. He was shot dead as he reached the gate of his residence in the Kigali suburb, Nyamirambo

The police also managed to seize a weapon (Pistol) that ought to have been used in the killing although the suspects still deny responsibility. The seized weapon from the suspect was identified to have been used in shooting and its rounds are similar to the two cartridges that were found at the scene of crime.

It has also been said that one suspect is related to a person claimed to have been killed by Leonard during 1994 Tutsi genocide implying that the killing might have been conducted as revenge. It should be noted that Jean Leonard was one of the most critical journalists in Rwanda. People wanted to silence him and allegedly accused him of genocide. This might have been another light that should lead to uncover the truth.

The two suspects are known to each other and originate from same area implying that the killing might have been planned before execution.

As earlier highlighted by the Commissioner General of Police, Rwanda National Police remains deeply concerned by the fictional accounts being peddled by individuals and groups for political gains. As law enforcement agency, RNP will continue to protect people and their properties against any threat. Investigation is still in progress and development will be communicated accordingly.

Emmanuel Mungwarakarama