The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has announced the arrest of politician Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, following a request from the Prosecution to open an investigation against her.
RIB confirmed that Ingabire, the leader of Dalfa-Umurinzi, a political party not recognized in Rwanda, is currently in custody, in a post shared on its X (formerly Twitter) account.
“RIB, upon request by the Prosecution, on June 19, 2025, launched an investigation into Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, in line with a decision by the High Council in the case against Sibomana Sylvain and his co-accused, so she can be presented before court,” the message read.
RIB further explained that Ingabire and her associates are being investigated for “offenses including forming a criminal group and planning actions aimed at inciting unrest among the public.”
The politician is currently detained at RIB Remera Station, awaiting transfer to the Prosecution.
Her arrest follows her appearance before the High Council on Thursday, where she was summoned to explain her alleged links to criminal charges against members of her political group, accused of attending trainings aimed at toppling the government through non-military means.
The court summoned Ingabire after the Prosecution repeatedly mentioned her name in prior hearings, implying her connection to the trainings in question.
In her defense, Ingabire admitted to knowing the nine accused individuals, but denied any connection to the alleged trainings or involvement of her party, especially as Dalfa-Umurinzi is not legally recognized in Rwanda.
After a two-hour closed session to assess her statements, the court ruled that the Prosecution must open a thorough investigation into her involvement.
The court concluded that her testimony was insufficient and there is enough evidence warranting further inquiry.
The presiding judge ordered the Prosecution to proceed with the investigation and submit findings to the court.
The Kigali High Council ruled that the investigation must be completed within two weeks, starting from Friday, June 20, 2025.
