Rwanda’s Bureau of Investigation has launched an in-depth inquiry into the death of a 29-year-old patient, Ishimwe Odile, at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, following serious allegations of sexual abuse and medical malpractice.
The case has sparked widespread public concern after an audio recording, reportedly from the victim’s brother, circulated on social media. In the recording, he claims that his sister was sexually assaulted by a healthcare worker while she was in critical condition.
According to the family, Odile had been admitted to an intensive care unit where access was restricted to medical staff only. Due to the severity of her illness, she was reportedly unable to speak, but is said to have written a note alleging that she had been abused by a caregiver instead of receiving proper treatment.
The family has also raised concerns about possible mismanagement of medication. They allege that expensive drugs purchased for her treatment were not administered, suggesting the possibility that they may have been diverted and sold illegally.
“If stealing medication was not enough, adding sexual abuse of a critically ill patient is beyond unacceptable and demands justice,” the victim’s brother said in the recording.
Speaking to the media, the spokesperson for the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, confirmed that an investigation is underway and that some suspects have already been arrested.
He revealed that on March 19, 2026, a 29-year-old woman filed a complaint accusing a nurse of sexual assault. The suspect was subsequently detained and a case file was submitted to the prosecution.
Following Odile’s death on April 16, 2026, additional complaints were received from her family, prompting authorities to expand the scope of the investigation to include the circumstances of her treatment and any possible negligence.
Dr. Murangira emphasized that no detail would be overlooked and called on anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist investigators.
The case continues to draw national attention, with many Rwandans demanding full transparency and accountability. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and those found responsible will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Source: Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) Official Statement and Family Testimonies
