Nyarugusu Camp: Refugees Killed and Injured Amid Police Attacks

CDH/VICAR reports that severe violence erupted in Nyarugusu Refugee Camp, with several Burundian refugees killed and others injured. Tanzanian police officers conducted nighttime raids on refugee households, claiming that Burundian refugees were prohibited from engaging in income-generating activities. During these operations, homes were ransacked, valuables stolen, and money confiscated, highlighting a flagrant abuse of authority.

Eyewitnesses indicate that the police divided stolen goods among themselves. When refugees attempted to defend their property or intervene, officers reportedly opened fire, resulting in multiple injuries. These actions have created a climate of fear, with refugees feeling unsafe in their own homes.

The Nyarugusu camp is divided into two sections: one for Congolese refugees and another for Burundian refugees. Disturbingly, only the Burundian section has been destabilized, demonstrating targeted violence and discrimination. Refugees report ongoing intimidation, harassment, and the threat of further attacks, undermining the basic principles of protection and asylum.

As usual, UNHCR has remained silent in the face of these grave violations. CDH/VICAR calls on Tanzanian authorities and international actors to immediately halt these attacks, investigate the abuses, ensure the safety of Burundian refugees, and uphold their rights under international refugee law. Refugees must be able to live with dignity, free from violence and exploitation.