Ohio Man Arrested for Alleged Role in 1994 Rwandan Genocide
Dayton, Ohio – Vincent Nzigiyimfura, a 65-year-old man, was arrested on June 12 in connection with allegations of his involvement in the mass killings that occurred during Rwanda’s 1994 genocide. Federal authorities have charged him with visa fraud and attempted naturalization fraud after he reportedly provided false information on his U.S. immigration applications.
Serious Allegations
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has indicated that Nzigiyimfura, also known as Vincent Mfura, is accused of orchestrating and facilitating brutal murders targeting the Tutsi population during the genocide, which resulted in the deaths of an estimated 500,000 to 800,000 individuals over a span of just 100 days. According to DOJ officials, he played a pivotal role in coordinating attacks, providing weapons and logistical support to the Hutu perpetrators.
Matthew Galeotti, head of the DOJ’s Criminal Division, stated, “As alleged, Vincent Nzigiyimfura directed and encouraged murders during the genocide in Rwanda and then lied to U.S. authorities to start a new life in this country.” He emphasized that the U.S. aims to be a sanctuary for victims of human rights abuses, not for their violators.
Path from Rwanda to Ohio
Following the genocide, Nzigiyimfura fled to Malawi before eventually entering the United States in 2009 after obtaining a visa by allegedly misrepresenting his past. Records indicate he falsely claimed to be a victim of the genocide and even underwent further deceit to apply for U.S. citizenship in 2014, reiterating these untruths during interviews with immigration officials.
Federal prosecutors revealed that his fraudulent actions extended to renewing his green card in 2018, which facilitated his acquisition of an Ohio driver’s license.
A Step Toward Justice
Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), remarked, “ICE HSI is committed to pursuing justice for victims of genocide by ensuring that those who committed atrocities in foreign lands cannot hide in Ohio or any other community in the United States.” He underscored the seriousness of the charges against Nzigiyimfura, stating, “No one wants a war criminal as their neighbor.”
If convicted, Nzigiyimfura faces a potential sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison. The case represents a continued effort by the U.S. government to hold accountable those implicated in historical atrocities and human rights violations.
Further updates are expected as the case develops, with the continued investigation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, in collaboration with the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center.
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