The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has reiterated that appearing before investigators when summoned is not optional but a legal obligation, warning that those who refuse may be compelled to appear by force in accordance with the law.
This reminder was emphasized by RIB Spokesperson, Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, who explained that in the course of daily investigative work, both investigators and prosecutors summon various individuals to gather information necessary to establish the truth about alleged crimes.
He noted that anyone can be called upon—whether a suspect, a witness, or any person believed to possess relevant information.
Dr. Murangira stated, “when an investigator summons any of these individuals for investigative purposes, the law requires them to comply.”
He pointed out that this requirement is grounded in the law governing criminal procedure, particularly Article 20, which stipulates that any person summoned by an investigator must respond. Failure to do so may result in being brought in by force upon presentation of a warrant signed by a prosecutor.
The law also outlines the procedures for summoning individuals. Article 29 defines a summons as a written notice issued by an investigator or prosecutor, requiring the recipient to appear at a specified date and time. Where possible, and with proof of delivery, such communication may also be transmitted through electronic means.
Additionally, Article 30 describes an invitation letter, which similarly requires the recipient to appear but does not constitute an arrest or detention order. Instead, it serves as a formal request to attend an investigative session.
Despite these clear provisions, Dr. Murangira acknowledged that some individuals still refuse to comply, forcing authorities to take further action.
He explained, “sometimes individuals who are invited refuse to appear, making it necessary for investigators to bring them in by force. It is therefore important for everyone to understand that responding to a lawful summons is mandatory, as provided for under Article 20 of the law on criminal procedure.”
Article 31 provides for a warrant to compel appearance, issued by a prosecutor and backed by state authority, particularly in cases where an individual is suspected of a crime or has ignored a lawful summons.
Dr. Murangira also emphasized that complying willingly benefits the person summoned, as it facilitates a smoother and more efficient investigation process and may influence decisions regarding whether a suspect is detained or allowed to remain free during proceedings.
He stated, “complying with investigative or prosecutorial summons is in the interest of the person concerned. Voluntary appearance without resistance helps streamline the investigation process and may be taken into account by investigators when deciding whether a suspect should be detained or released, as it allows authorities to access the individual whenever needed.”
RIB further raised concern over misconduct by some individuals who refuse to receive official summons, ignore them, or even destroy such documents—actions that are punishable by law.
In a concluding message, Dr. Murangira stressed, “RIB reminds everyone that this is a legal obligation, not a request, and those summoned should comply without resistance.”
The Bureau underscored that respecting legal summons is essential to the proper functioning of the justice system and called on all citizens to cooperate fully with investigative authorities.
