On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in the Karambi Sector, Nyamasheke District, a public trial was held, where a Rwandan soldier with the rank of sergeant, Minani Gervais, 39 years old, was tried for killing five people. Sgt. Minani Gervais is accused of shooting five people in a bar in the Karambi Sector on the night of November 13, 2024. 

The military prosecutor’s office accuses the soldier of crimes including involuntary manslaughter, killing without the orders of his superiors, as well as the crime of concealment and willful destruction of weapons. 

Many citizens came to listen to the case of this soldier, as well as the soldiers of the Rwandan army who also came to follow the contents of the case of their comrade. 

The management of the Rwandan Armed Forces announced that it has taken appropriate measures to prosecute this soldier through legal channels.

 This is a trial that took place in Rubyiruko Village, Rusharara District, in front of a crowd of people who had come to hear the proceedings of this important issue. Although the trial was set to proceed, the defense filed an objection requesting that the trial be adjourned due to Sgt. Minani’s illness. 

This request led to an argument between the prosecutors and defense attorneys, where the prosecution argued that this reason was not presented before, so the case should continue. 

After the court heard the arguments of both sides, the judge decided to proceed with the trial, explaining the nature of the crime against Sgt. Minani. Defense lawyer Sgt. Minani Gervais expressed that he is not ready to stand trial for the accused because they did not get enough time to review his complaint file.

 This case, which has a great history, has caused a lot of controversy between all parties involved in this matter and may have a great impact on the Rwandan community, as well as on the Rwandan army, while the investigation continues.

 The case of this soldier was the first case in these days where both sides claim that there are things that were not prepared properly, but the court decided to continue the proceedings and to pursue the crime in a proper way.