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By The Respondent reporter
More than 74 illegal immigrants from Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have been arrested in Missenyi district, where they are currently held by immigration authorities as efforts are made to repatriate them.
Kagera Regional Immigration officer, Assistant Commissioner Peter Malima told the media yesterday July 3, 2025 that the arrests took place in Kashaba village, Kyaka ward where 74 Burundians were netted and ofher four in various locations throughout the district, one Ugandan and three Congolese whereby many of the migrants were working as laborers in sugar cane plantations.
Additionally, 11 local residents are being questioned by authorities for allegedly hiring and harboring these illegal immigrants, which constitutes a violation of the country's immigration laws, citing that Kagera Sugar Company is a good example in athering by regulations when they need labourers from neighbouring countries.
Malima highlighted that, in June alone, the Kagera Regional Immigration Department successfully arrested and repatriated a total of 800 illegal immigrants through patrols across Kagera region.
He urged residents in Missenyi and the broader Kagera region to report any individuals they suspect may lack proper documentation or citizenship to local immigration officials.
Malima emphasized that citizens who continue to protect or employ illegal immigrants without adhering to immigration regulations will face serious consequences, including arrest and potential imprisonment.