Hakizimana Théogène, 35, is from Kibirizi Sector in Nyanza District, southern Rwanda. He was arrested on July 21, 2022, while crossing the border through the Akanyaru wetland to collect grass for livestock.

Following his arrest, Hakizimana was detained in Burundi’s Ngozi Province before being taken to court and sentenced to seven years in prison.

He was released on October 9, 2026, before completing his sentence, and returned to Rwanda through the Akanyaru border crossing in Nyaruguru District.

Hakizimana lives in Gihama Village, Mbuye Cell, in Kibirizi Sector.

Burezi Eugène, the executive secretary of Kibirizi Sector, confirmed the release to IGIHE, saying Hakizimana had already returned home and been welcomed by his family.

“Our resident had been taken by Burundians and imprisoned, but he has now been released. He is home, and his family has welcomed him,” Burezi said.

Hakizimana’s release comes weeks after another Rwandan man, aged 23, was reportedly killed in Burundi on September 23, 2026, while collecting grass for livestock.

Another Rwandan was also reportedly detained in Burundi after crossing the border but was later released.

Burezi urged residents to avoid crossing into neighbouring countries through unofficial routes, warning that doing so could expose them to serious risks.

He encouraged residents to use authorised border crossings to protect their safety and avoid similar incidents.