Denis Kazungu, the ‘serial killer’ responsible for the deaths of 13 people, majority women, has been handed a life sentence by the Nyarugenge Intermediate Court, after he was found guilty of all 10 charges.

Kazungu’s charge sheet included among others murder, forgery, and rape.

During the verdict reading on March 7, the presiding judge emphasised Kazungu’s admission of guilt to all charges and the compelling testimonies presented during the trial. Despite pleas for leniency from Kazungu and his legal counsel, the judge ruled there were no mitigating factors warranting a lesser sentence, thus sentencing him the maximum life imprisonment.

In addition to the life sentence, the court ruled that Kazungu must pay damages to the families of his victims.

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During the trial that took place on February 9, the prosecution detailed Kazungu’s heinous crimes, which unfolded in Kicukiro District. From April of the previous year until September 5, 2023, when he was arrested, Kazungu rented a house where he committed the crimes, only coming to light when authorities intervened due to rental disputes with his landlord.

Upon his arrest, Kazungu confessed to murdering and burying 13 individuals within the premises. Evidence, including images of torture tools and testimonies from survivors, painted a horrifying picture of Kazungu’s reign of terror. Victims like Eliane Mbabazi, Eric Turatsinze, Francoise, and Clementine were among those whose lives were tragically cut short by his actions.

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The prosecution also presented evidence of rape, theft, threats, and other acts of violence perpetrated by Kazungu and his deliberate destruction of property and forgery.

Throughout the trial, Kazungu expressed remorse for his actions but denied poverty as a motive, acknowledging the profound impact on both families and the Rwandan community at large. Despite his pleas for forgiveness, the prosecution pushed for the maximum penalty, reflecting the gravity of Kazungu's crimes.