By CHIMPREPORTS
At least nine individuals fell victim to a recent assault by the Red Tabara rebel movement in Burundi, as reported by the Burundi presidency on Monday. The attack took place on February 25, 2024, at approximately 9:30 p.m. in the Gihanga Commune, Bubanza Province. The statement detailed that armed terrorists targeted a grieving household in the Buringa locality, resulting in tragic consequences. The casualties included six women and a soldier who was attempting to rescue the population.
The Burundi presidency condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly” act that inflicted both human and material damage. The toll included nine immediate fatalities and five injuries, with three women among the wounded. The rebels also set fire to a motorcycle and two cars, one of which was transporting a deceased individual to the morgue; the driver lost his life in the assault.
This incident follows a prior attack by Red Tabara in December 2023, where 20 people lost their lives in Gatumba, Mutimbuzi district, near the Burundi-Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) border. In response, Burundi accused Rwanda of providing refuge and financial support to Red Tabara for carrying out criminal activities in Burundi.
Burundi’s government expressed deep concern over Rwanda’s alleged involvement in supporting Red Tabara, urging the extradition of the alleged masterminds based in Rwanda. Rwanda has denied these accusations, emphasizing its lack of association with any Burundian armed group.
Tensions between Rwanda and Burundi have heightened recently, with Gitega supporting the DRC’s armed forces against the Kigali-backed M23 rebels. The United Nations has issued warnings about the potential escalation of conflict between Rwanda and the DRC, with implications for Burundi.
In response to the recent attack, Red Tabara claimed responsibility, asserting that its fighters targeted Burundian military positions at the Mpanda River and the Ndombolo position in Buringa. The rebels reported the death of six soldiers, the destruction of the CNDD-FDD headquarters, and the seizure of weapons and ammunition. Red Tabara declared its commitment to intensify the fight until the alleged oppression by the CNDD-FDD regime ceases, calling for inclusive negotiations for lasting peace in Burundi.
The Government of Burundi condemned the attack as a “despicable and barbaric act” against an innocent population in mourning. It extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
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