Bujumbura, Burundi – July 3, 2025
At least six people were brutally killed in Burundi this week after being accused of practicing witchcraft, according to local officials and human rights groups. The killings occurred in the Gasarara Hill area near Bujumbura and were reportedly carried out by members of the Imbonerakure, the youth wing of the ruling CNDD-FDD party.
Authorities confirmed that two victims were burned alive, while others were beaten to death with clubs and stones. Local residents said the mob dragged the victims from their homes on Monday after allegations of sorcery surfaced in connection with recent unexplained deaths in the area.
“This was a horrific and unlawful act of mob justice,” said Bujumbura Provincial Governor Niyongabo Jules in a press briefing on Tuesday. “We have arrested 12 suspects so far and are continuing our investigations.”
Background of the Attack
Witnesses said the attack was sparked by rumors involving the deaths of a schoolteacher and a child in the community. Some locals believed the deaths were linked to sorcery, prompting the violent retaliation. The victims included two men — identified as Revob and Bimar — who were reportedly set on fire while still alive. Another man, Vinicius, was beaten to death with wooden sticks.
At least three others were seriously injured but survived after police intervened. One of the survivors remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Imbonerakure Involvement and Human Rights Concerns
The Imbonerakure has long been accused by the United Nations and human rights organizations of operating as a paramilitary force. International groups such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have documented numerous cases of extrajudicial killings, torture, and intimidation linked to the group, especially during the presidency of Pierre Nkurunziza (2005–2020).
In a 2017 report, Human Rights Watch referred to the Imbonerakure as a “violent militia” used to silence opposition and enforce political control. The United Nations has echoed similar concerns, calling for urgent reforms and accountability.
Traditional Beliefs and Violence
Despite being a predominantly Christian country, Burundi’s rural areas are deeply influenced by traditional spiritual beliefs. Accusations of witchcraft often lead to social ostracization, beatings, or killings. In 2023, a former Prime Minister of Burundi was sentenced to life imprisonment on charges of attempting to use witchcraft to destabilize the state and assassinate the president.
“Such beliefs, when unchecked by the rule of law, become a breeding ground for mass violence,” said Angela Mburu, a regional analyst with the African Centre for Justice.
Social Media Reactions and Global Outcry
Videos allegedly showing scenes from the attack have circulated widely on social media since Tuesday, prompting outrage both domestically and abroad. Human rights organizations are demanding a full investigation and calling on the Burundian government to disband the Imbonerakure and bring those responsible to justice.
“The international community must not remain silent,” said a spokesperson for the United Nations Human Rights Council. “This is part of a dangerous pattern of mob violence and political repression.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police said an additional four suspects were arrested on Wednesday, bringing the total number of arrests to 16. Investigators are working to determine whether the attacks were spontaneous or part of a coordinated campaign.
The government has promised swift justice, but critics remain skeptical due to a long history of impunity surrounding politically affiliated violence in the country.
