Murder suspect pleads guilty during public hearing

A murder suspect accused of killing his neighbour in Rwamagana District pleaded guilty during a public hearing in the district on Tuesday. Wellars Habakurema, a resident of Kigabiro sector, was charged with the murder of Iriniga Nsengiyumva. He pleaded guilty to murder before Ngoma Intermediate Court sitting in Rwamagana. After hearing the charges read by the presiding judge Jerome Mugeyo, Habakurema pleaded guilty and prayed court’s lenience. Prosecution, led by Sebastian Sebagabo, said that the 29-year old used a club to clobber the victim to death earlier this month. The deceased was attacked and killed instantly when he tried to restrain the suspect from battering his wife, court heard. Sebastian Sebagabo speaks during the hearing. Prosecution requested the court to hand life sentence to the suspect. “Yes, we talked to many close relatives, neighbours and local leaders in regard to that matter…exhibits, eyewitnesses, medical and local leaders reports all pin the suspect beyond any doubt,” he told court. “Domestic violence has increased in this district…it’s thus imperative that we give maximum punishment to culprits. We request that the suspects be sentenced to life in jail as he pledged guilty,” said Prosecutor Sebagabo, adding that there was sufficient evidence implicating Habakurema. The prosecutor accused the suspect of deliberately claiming the life of an innocent man. The court is due to deliver its verdict on December 1. “We have decided to conduct the trial in the community…justice must be done in a place where the crime was committed. We brought the hearing here as a deliberate move to deter potential criminals from similar acts,” said judge Mugeyo. Residents listen as murder case is read. (Photos by S. Rwembeho) Residents listened in disbelieve as the prosecution gave account of the cold blood murder. Meanwhile, four medics accused of homicide when operating on an expectant mother at Kabarondo Primary Court yesterday. The accused allegedly committed the crime at Rwinkwavu Hospital in Kayonza District. Their verdicts will be read on December 16. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Murder suspect pleads guilty during public hearing