Third Suspect Arrested in Yampano Explicit Video Case as File Is Submitted to Prosecution
The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has confirmed the arrest of a third suspect believed to be involved in circulating an explicit video of Rwandan musician Yampano, as the case file for the first two suspects has already been submitted to the Prosecution.
The initial file, which concerns Kalisa John (known as K-John) and Ishimwe Patrick (popularly known as Pazzo Man), was handed over to the Prosecution on November 17, 2025. The two were the first to be apprehended following a complaint filed on November 9, accusing them of sharing sexually explicit footage involving Yampano and his partner, Uwineza Diane.
On November 18, 2025, RIB arrested another young man, Ishimwe François Xavier, suspected of charging people money in exchange for access to the same explicit video. According to RIB, this conduct constitutes a criminal offense and amounts to a serious violation of privacy.
RIB Explains the Progress of the Investigation
RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry said the investigation seeks to uncover the full chain through which the video was shared and ensure that everyone involved is brought to justice. “The file of the first suspects has already been transferred to the Prosecution. The investigation is ongoing to ensure no one escapes accountability. The third suspect will also be prosecuted for monetizing explicit content, an act that is punishable under our laws,”
Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, RIB Spokesperson
He noted that the circulation of such videos has become increasingly common among young people, some of whom recklessly record intimate moments and store or share them carelessly, leading to widespread leaks on social media.“Some young people are irresponsibly filming sexual acts, while others commercialize or distribute them. Such actions cause deep humiliation, loss of trust, and social stigma, and they can have long-lasting psychological consequences for the victims,”
Experts Call for Stronger Awareness and Digital Responsibility
Digital-rights lawyer Me. Dusabimana Clarisse told IGIHE that sharing sexually explicit material without consent is a severe breach of privacy and should be treated with urgency.
“No one gains from distributing such videos except those seeking to hurt the victims. This emerging trend of commercializing people’s private moments must be confronted and stopped immediately,”
Me. Dusabimana Clarisse
She emphasized that Rwandan law and international legal frameworks criminalize the distribution or sale of explicit content involving identifiable individuals.
Public Voices Concern Over Growing Trend
Residents interviewed by IGIHE expressed alarm over the increasing number of similar incidents, particularly among young people seeking online attention or fame.
Munyaneza Jean Pierre, a Kigali resident, said: “This is destroying our youth. Today it is Yampano, tomorrow it will be someone else. People should stop filming such acts and circulating them, because it can completely destroy someone’s life.”
More Arrests Possible as Investigation Continues
RIB said the investigation remains open, and more suspects may be identified as digital forensic analysis continues. The institution reiterated the need to respect people’s privacy and avoid any actions that violate their dignity.“Anyone found to have played a role in circulating Yampano’s video will be held accountable. We do not tolerate actions intended to defame or violate a person’s private life,”
RIB
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