KISORO – The Kisoro Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Robert Tukamuhebwa, has confirmed that the family of Moses Bakunzi Nizeyimana, residing in Kanyacucu Village, Busengo Parish, Nyarubuye Sub County, has agreed to pay a ransom of 2 Million Shillings to the kidnappers of his 10-year-old son who went missing over 10 days ago.
The victim, Irankunda John Mary, a primary three pupil at Kanyacucu Primary School in Busengo Parish, Nyarubuye, was reportedly abducted on Sunday by one Hakiza, a Congolese shepherd who had been hired to take care of livestock at the family’s home.
The demand made by the kidnappers amounted to 8 Million Shillings, and the family, under immense pressure, opted to make a partial payment of 2 Million Shillings. This payment was executed through a mobile money transaction to a provided mobile phone number, subsequent to the kidnappers offering proof of the child’s continued existence.
Regrettably, attempts to trace the recipient’s phone number have proven futile as the phones were promptly switched off after receiving the payment. Initial efforts by the police traced the phone’s location to Masisi, Democratic Republic of Congo, but the trail went cold soon after.
Expressing empathy for the family’s distressing situation, Tukamuhebwa underscored the importance of adhering to security experts’ counsel, criticizing the family’s decision to proceed without proper consultation. He revealed that ongoing efforts, including the use of GPS and other sophisticated tracking methods, are being employed to locate the missing child.
In response to the prevailing situation, Tukamuhebwa urged all Local Council (LC) chairpersons to diligently document information about casual laborers working in Kisoro. He emphasized the need for comprehensive records, noting that laborers from both Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo often work in the area, but vital details are frequently overlooked by village leadership.
CUE IN DRDC TUKAMUHABWA…..ON THE MATTER……RR//
