The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has confirmed that one of its soldiers, Sergeant Sadiki Emmanuel, was arrested in Burundi after accidentally crossing the border at Gasenyi–Nemba. RDF says the soldier, who serves as a driver, got lost while near the frontier and unintentionally entered Burundian territory on September 24, 2025.
In a statement issued the same day, RDF explained that Sgt Sadiki was immediately detained by Burundian police and is currently being held at Kirundo Police Station in Busoni Commune, Butanyera Province. The Rwandan army expressed regret over the incident and clarified that it was not intentional.
“RDF is saddened by this incident that occurred at the shared border and will use all possible diplomatic channels to work with the government of Burundi for the safe return of our soldier,” the statement read.
This comes after Burundi’s National Defence Force (FDNB) announced the arrest earlier, saying the soldier admitted to losing his way. With both armies acknowledging the situation, attention now turns to diplomatic negotiations between Kigali and Bujumbura.
