Reports in local media have detailed a disturbing incident involving a 34-year-old secondary school teacher who allegedly bit off part of his 30-year-old wife's ear, accusing her of infidelity. The wife is also an educator.

A graphic photo accompanying the articles reveals the severity of the assault, with the missing portion of her ear unaccounted for, leading neighbours to speculate that the husband may have swallowed it.

When neighbours came to her rescue, strikingly, she didn't want to report the husband to authorities. Apparently their families would come to "mediate" them, and she didn't want the husband arrested.

Unverified sources say that the couple visited local leadership offices and committed to avoiding future conflicts, allowing the alleged abuser to escape legal repercussions.

The case reflects a broader issue where signs of abuse are often known to neighbors, friends, and family before reaching a critical point or resulting in tragedy.

Despite all the red flags, we, as a community of neighbours and friends, often do so little to intervene in unhealthy relationships. It's crucial to understand that intervening in cases of abuse is not meddling but a moral obligation.

Even if victims present a facade of strength, preventing domestic violence requires active engagement.

In case you are unable to approach the victim or to confront the abuser, you can speak out on behalf of the victim by alerting the police, Rwanda Investigation Bureau, or local authorities.

Remaining passive in the face of domestic violence only empowers perpetrators and perpetuates a culture of abuse. Silence enables offenders and reinforces a climate where domestic violence goes unchecked.

Local authorities must adopt a zero-tolerance stance towards domestic violence. A piece of signed paper does not give justice to victims and survivors, and does not in any way make the situation better.