Reports indicate that Burundi continues to reinforce its border with Rwanda by deploying large numbers of troops and heavy weapons, particularly in the Gasenyi–Nemba area of Busoni Commune in Butanyerera Province, northern Burundi.
According to information from SOS Médias Burundi, fear is steadily growing among residents in these areas after many Burundian soldiers set up positions at various points along the Burundi–Rwanda border.
A senior officer in the Burundian National Defence Forces (FDNB) was quoted as saying, “Heavy weapons have been deployed to counter any possible attack that could be launched by Rwanda.”
Rwanda, on the other hand, recently stated that it has no intention whatsoever of going to war with a neighboring country, and that attacking Burundi has never even been considered.
A resident of Busoni Commune said the situation is not entirely clear, adding that there are also reports suggesting that Rwandan troops have moved closer to the border as well.
He said, “The soldiers are watching each other closely. No one speaks, no one makes a move — it looks as though everyone is prepared.”
Residents on the Burundian side of the border say fear is widespread, as they worry that fighting could break out at any moment.
A resident from the Gasenyi area said, “We sleep fully dressed, ready to flee at any time if fighting erupts.”
A trader from Nemba added, “One single bullet could disrupt everything. We feel that war could break out at any moment.”
Additionally, in many areas of Busoni Commune and other communes such as Butanyerera, members of the Imbonerakure youth group have intensified security activities.
A teacher from the area said, “Night patrols have doubled or even tripled. We see groups of young people accompanied by police officers moving around different areas.”
Reports further indicate that many trucks loaded with Burundian soldiers and weapons have been sent to reinforce troops already stationed along the border, particularly the 411th Battalion based in Mutwenzi.
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