MUSANZE – Two children, whose father allegedly attempted to drown them in River Mukungwa, were rescued by fishermen yesterday, moments after the incidence.

Fortunée Iyamumpaye, 6, and Elyse Niyomutuzo, 4 were allegedly thrown into the river by Médard Musabyimana, their father, on Wednesday at about 11.00 am-claiming they were not his real children.

Musabyimana, a resident of Nyagahinga cell, Cyanika sector, in Burera district reportedly travelled to Ruhengeri town by bus from where he hired a motorcycle which eventually took him to the river side to dispose of his victims.

"We did not know what was happening until the children cried out for help while they were on the verge of drowning. It took us almost an hour to rescue them,’’ said one of the fishermen who gave his name only as Grégoire.

The unconscious children were immediately rushed to Ruhengeri Hospital where they are currently reported to be recovering.

Musabyimana, who serves as a member of Burera district advisory council representing people with disability, was later arrested and is being held by Burera Police.

He later admitted to having attempted to drown the two children. According to authorities in Cyanika sector, Musabyimana had over the years denied fathering the children, born to his second wife.

The Executive Secretary of Cyanika sector, JMV Nkanika said that he tried several times to convince the suspect to accept the responsibility of the two children but in vain.

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