The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), working together with Rwanda National Police, has arrested six people accused of tricking young people with fake promises of studying in Canada.
According to authorities, the suspects allegedly told youth they could help them get scholarships and study opportunities in Canadian universities.
The arrests followed growing complaints from many young people who gathered in Kigali hoping to receive information about studying abroad.
How the Incident Happened
Reports show that on 13 May 2026, many young people went to Lemigo Hotel in Kigali after hearing announcements about opportunities to study in Canada.
Videos shared on social media showed large groups of youth sitting around the hotel and nearby areas while waiting for organizers to arrive.
However, many reportedly waited for hours without receiving the promised information.
Some participants later started suspecting the event could be fake.
What Authorities Said
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Rwanda National Police confirmed the arrests.
The statement said:
“In collaboration with RIB, six people suspected of deceiving youth with promises of study opportunities in Canada have been arrested.”
Authorities added that investigations are continuing to establish the full truth behind the operation.
The suspects are currently being questioned while investigators gather more information.
More informations deply visit Rwanda Investigation Bureau https://www.rib.gov.rw
Promises of Canadian Universities and Loans
According to information circulating online before the event, organizers claimed that more than 15 Canadian universities had come to Rwanda searching for students.
Young people were told to arrive with documents such as:
- Academic certificates
- CVs and work experience documents
- Identification papers
The promoters also claimed students could receive study loans for Canada without providing any security or guarantee.
Participants reportedly only needed to register.
These promises attracted many young people hoping to continue their studies abroad.
Celebrities Also Shared the Advertisements
Reports indicate that some local celebrities and social media influencers helped spread messages advertising the event.
The online promotions increased public interest and convinced many young people the opportunities were genuine.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether those celebrities knew anything about the suspected fraud.
Not the First Similar Case in Rwanda
This is not the first time young people in Rwanda have been targeted with fake international opportunities.
In 2019, thousands of youth attended an event at Kigali Convention Centre after paying registration fees for what was called a “Wealth and Fitness Summit.”
At the time, participants were promised knowledge, networking opportunities, and even payments for attending.
Some people paid around 4,500 Frw using Mobile Money or online payments.
Later, many discovered the promises were false, and several suspects were arrested.
Need More Informations Visit: Rwanda National Police Official Platiform https://www.police.gov.rw
Authorities Warn Young People
Following the latest arrests, authorities warned young people to be careful about online advertisements promising quick opportunities abroad.
Experts advise students to:
- Verify scholarship offers carefully
- Use official university websites
- Confirm travel opportunities through trusted agencies
- Avoid sending money to unknown organizers
Officials say scammers often target young people who dream of studying or working overseas.
Investigation Continues
RIB says investigations are still ongoing to determine:
- How many people may have been affected
- Whether money was collected from victims
- If more suspects were involved
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to the case to cooperate with investigators.