The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has arrested three men accused of trafficking 20 kilograms of elephant tusks that were smuggled into the country from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and allegedly destined for sale in Asian markets.
According to RIB, the suspects Tuyisenge Mudatenguha, Sekamana Jean Felix, and Shirumuteto Jean Pierre were apprehended in Kigali on October 17, 2025, while in possession of three tusks cut into eight pieces. Investigators said the trio was intercepted before delivering the ivory to a buyer who intended to export it to Asia.
RIB revealed that the suspects were using a vehicle belonging to Burera District, with Sekamana identified as the district driver. During interrogation, Tuyisenge admitted that he acted as a broker in the illegal deal.
He told investigators that a Congolese man had approached him to find a buyer and a way to smuggle the ivory across the border, after which he linked up with Shirumuteto, who helped move the tusks into Rwanda through illegal routes.
Shirumuteto reportedly confessed that he joined the trade out of financial desperation, denying any prior involvement in wildlife trafficking.
The three suspects are currently detained at RIB’s Rusororo Station, pending the completion of their case file before it is forwarded to the Prosecution Office.
RIB: Rwanda Not a Safe Route for Wildlife Traffickers
RIB spokesperson Dr. Thierry B. Murangira said that while such wildlife crimes are rare, traffickers often attempt to use Rwanda as a transit route to export ivory abroad.“These crimes are uncommon because of the strict enforcement measures in place. Those who attempt to use Rwanda as a trafficking route are regularly caught and prosecuted,”
Dr. Murangira said.
“We urge the public to avoid getting involved in such illegal activities, as the law will not spare anyone found guilty.”
Under Article 58 of Rwanda’s environmental protection law, anyone found guilty of hunting, injuring, killing, or selling endangered species faces five to seven years in prison and a fine ranging from RWF 5 million to RWF 7 million.
Authorities reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to combat wildlife crime and preserve endangered species by strengthening cross-border collaboration and public awareness campaigns.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
