Kigali City Engineer Corruption Case Sent to Prosecution
A senior civil engineer working for the City of Kigali has been arrested and is now under investigation for alleged corruption and illegally acquired property. The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) confirmed that Clement Ingabire, aged 36, is currently being held at the Nyarugenge RIB Station.
RIB Sends Kigali City Engineer Corruption Case to Prosecutors
According to RIB, Ingabire’s file has been officially submitted to the Prosecution Office. He is facing serious charges linked to:
- Failing to explain the source of his wealth
- Suspected involvement in money laundering
The crimes are believed to have occurred between 2021 and 2023, during his role as a construction inspector for the City of Kigali.
You can read more about Rwanda’s laws on corruption and wealth declaration here.
RIB Warns Public About Kigali City Engineer Corruption Support
In a public message shared on RIB’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, the agency reminded citizens that helping suspects hide their wealth is also a crime. The statement warned:
“Anyone who agrees to register illegally acquired property in their name, to help a suspect hide wealth, is also considered an accomplice under Rwandan law.”
RIB also urged all public servants to avoid using their positions for personal gain and to follow the law at all times.
Kigali City Engineer Corruption: How Wealth Was Hidden
Investigations revealed that Ingabire may have tried to cover up his wealth by registering assets under the names of his relatives and family members. This practice is commonly linked to money laundering, where people hide the real origin of money or property.
Reports from local news outlet Umuseke indicate that some of the assets may include valuable properties such as real estate and other high-cost items.
Rwanda’s Law on Kigali City Engineer Corruption
Rwandan law punishes corruption and financial crimes with strict penalties. The following are the legal consequences related to Ingabire’s charges:
1. Money Laundering (Iyezandonke)
If convicted, penalties include:
- 10 to 15 years in prison
- A fine equal to 3 to 5 times the value of the illegal money or assets
2. Failing to Explain Wealth Source
If proven guilty, the suspect may face:
- 7 to 10 years in prison
- A fine of 3 to 5 times the value of the unaccounted property
In both situations, RIB emphasizes that these crimes do not expire, and suspects can be prosecuted at any time, even after many years.
Why Kigali City Engineer Corruption Case Matters to Rwanda
This case sends a strong message about Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to fight corruption and increase transparency within government offices. Arresting a high-level city employee shows that no one is above the law.
Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious wealth or any abuse of public office. Organizations like Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) and Transparency International Rwanda are leading efforts to reduce corruption and promote accountability.
For more information, visit the official RIB website: www.rib.gov.rw
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