NYABIHU–Seventeen members of the Democratic Republic of Congo-based Rwandan rebel group, Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), who were apprehended by security officials in Rubavu and Nyabihu districts, were, last week, sent on remand on subversive activities and terrorism charges. 

At least 14 of them pleaded guilty, admitting that they were active members of FDLR, with a wide range of responsibilities including recruitment, resource mobilisation and intelligence.

Appearing in the Primary Court of Mukamira, presided over by judge Emmanuel Sebutunda Muhire, the suspects were remanded in custody for 30 days at Rubavu Central Prison, as prosecution carries out further investigations.

The suspects, who were arrested from different areas, however, maintained that they had abandoned rebel activities and were allegedly returning home at the time of arrest.  

They told court that they were misled by FDLR commanders who had promised them jobs to carry out terrorism activities.

One of the suspects only identified as Jean Baptiste, was reportedly responsible for recruitment. He was arrested in the company of two suspects, Hakizimana and Nshimiye, who are from Mudende Sector.

Jean Paul Ndacyayisenga, confessed his responsibility in coordinating an intelligence network, known as moto moto, that operates from Walikare Zone, but resided in disguise in Nyamirambo Sector of Kigali City.

Other suspects include Janvier Ndayambaje, Fidel Manasseh, Elifphaz Nsabimana, JMV Mwunvaneza, Ephraim Hitiyaremye and Jacques Hakizimana,

Others are Jean d’Amour Uwizeyimana, Joseph Uwimana, Damascene Manishimwe, Ndemeye Bizimana and Claude Gahimano.

FDLR is an armed group  especially made up of elements responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and operates in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

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