Police Report 139 Child Defilement Cases in Four Months

Eastern Province Police spokesperson SP Twizeyimana Hamduni told media that Nyagatare District recorded the highest number of cases at 37, followed by Bugesera with 23, Kayonza 19, Gatsibo 17, Ngoma and Rwamagana with 15 each, and Kirehe with 13.

“Child defilement is a crime that never expires under the law. Whenever it is discovered that you committed it, you will be arrested and prosecuted,” Twizeyimana said. He warned parents against concealing information and urged them to closely monitor their children’s wellbeing.

Police said contributing factors include alcohol abuse, poor parental supervision that leaves children vulnerable to manipulation, and harmful beliefs, with cases reported of men in their late 30s sexually abusing toddlers as young as two years old.

Twizeyimana also called on families to avoid domestic conflicts, which often prevent parents from properly caring for their children, and urged the public to report cases promptly so that perpetrators face justice.

Eastern Province Governor Pudence Rubingisa echoed the warning, criticizing parents who neglect their children’s upbringing or fail to report abusers.

“A child is not born to be called ‘Harerimana’—literally ‘raised by God.’ We must take responsibility,” Rubingisa said. “When a family is peaceful and free from conflict, children grow up well.”

Authorities said 13 suspects remain at large due to information being withheld.