The Primary Court of Kicukiro has ordered a 30-day provisional detention for five individuals accused of publishing false information through YouTube channels.

The suspects — Mazimpaka Patrick, Nizeyimana Didier also known as Muchoma, Barafinda Fred Sekikubo, Nkeramihigo Japhet and Tumukunde Juma, also known as Fitboy Djuma — appeared before the court on February 19, 2026. The hearing was conducted in camera in consideration of court interests and national security concerns.

According to the prosecution, Barafinda Fred Sekikubo allegedly collaborated with Mazimpaka Patrick and Nkeramihigo Japhet to organize and broadcast discussions on YouTube channels including Umurwa Live TV, Ndasiganwa TV and Saneza TV. Prosecutors argue that the content was intended to spread false information and incite public discontent against the government.

The court heard that the accused reportedly assigned roles among themselves, including moderating discussions, filming and editing content, uploading videos to YouTube, and sharing advertising revenue generated from online views.

One of the statements cited during proceedings referenced remarks made during a broadcast that later circulated widely on social media platforms.

Following the dissemination of the content, investigations were launched, leading to the arrest of the initial suspects. Authorities later detained Nizeyimana Didier, said to own three YouTube channels — Saneza TV, Sana TV Show and Mucoma Sana — along with his employee Tumukunde Juma.

After reviewing arguments from both the prosecution and defense, the court ruled that the suspects be held for 30 days to allow further investigation into the alleged offenses.

Under Rwandan law, the accused have five days to appeal the decision.

Source: InyaRwanda