On October 30, 2026, prosecutors in Rwanda requested the temporary detention of two employees of Rwanda Mining Company (RMB), Fiona Uwamamhoro and Bienfait Assoumani, for 30 days. They are accused of not disclosing a serious crime, being accomplices to theft, and involvement in illegal mining activities without a permit. The request was made during a hearing at the Nyamabuye District Court.
According to prosecutors, Uwamamhoro and Assoumani conducted an inspection at Rugendabari Mining Company, which had been suspended. Despite the suspension, they found signs and documents indicating the company's continued operation and proceeded with the inspection. Prosecutors claim that the duo failed to report their findings and did not submit a report two months after the inspection on June 11, 2026.
The accused and their lawyers argued that the inspection was conducted at SEAVMC, not Rugendabari Mining Company, as their work assignment stated. They claimed they did not visit Rugendabari Mining Company and that the signs and documents were already present at the site. The defense also argued that the suspension of the company was within the employees' authority.
Prosecutors presented a guestbook from Rugendabari Mining Company, which Uwamamhoro and Assoumani had signed, along with recommendations. The accused acknowledged signing the book but claimed it was an error and did not constitute a crime. They requested temporary release, promising to cooperate with the investigation and adhere to any conditions set by the court.
However, prosecutors informed the court that they had inquired about SEAVMC's operating permit in the Muhanga district and were told it did not exist. They also requested evidence that the accused had visited SEAVMC, but none was provided. The court has scheduled the verdict on the detention request for November 3, 2026, at 10 pm.
The case involves allegations of involvement in illegal mining activities and failure to report a serious crime. Prosecutors argue that the temporary detention is necessary to continue the investigation. The accused have denied the allegations, and their lawyers have requested their release pending further investigation.
The court's decision will determine whether Uwamamhoro and Assoumani will be detained for 30 days as requested by prosecutors. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining activities in Rwanda and ensure accountability among mining companies and their employees.
Key points
- Prosecutors seek 30-day detention for two RMB employees accused of involvement in illegal mining activities.
- Accused employees claim they inspected a different company, SEAVMC, and did not commit any crimes.
- Court to decide on detention request on November 3, 2026.
