Rwanda National Police

Couples have been called upon to desist from tendencies of domestic fightings, especially perpetuated by men, who claim superiority over their wives.

The call follows an incident in Nyanza sector of Gisagara District, where a man assaulted his wife, apparently accusing her of preparing his lunch very late.

It is said that Ephraim Ndagijimana assaulted his wife after he returned home on May 15 at about 1pm and found that the wife was still cooking lunch.

Ndagijimana decided to descent on his wife and assaulted her seriously with a stick. The victim is currently admitted at Kamembe hospital for medical assistance.

Chief Supt. Simon Mukama, the Southern Region Police Commander said the suspect could have been under the influence of illicit drugs at the time he committed the alleged offence but added that investigations are still underway.

He explained that majority of domestic conflicts registered in the region are largely fueled by drug abuse where husbands are found of battering their spouses over petty issues, when they return home drunk.

He called upon couples to always seek assistance from concerned authorities in case they have domestic issues and warned against either sell or consumption of illicit drugs that fuel such community insecurities.

CSP Mukama further appealed to residents in the region to reinforce efforts against such illegal and criminal activities that bring about domestic conflicts that at times turn violent.

Any person who intentionally causes injuries to another, or beats or commits any serious acts of violence against another person shall be liable to a term of imprisonment of six months to two years and a fine of Rwf100, 000) to  Rwf500, 000 or one of these penalties, under article 148 of the penal code.

In the same way, he advised against acts of self justice, which he said also puts a victim in the docket of criminals.