An individual of Rwandan origin has been apprehended in Ohio, facing allegations of concealing his role in the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. Eric Tabaro Nshimiye is accused by federal prosecutors of hiding his participation in the widespread killings, which reportedly included direct involvement in the deaths of several people.
Since relocating to Ohio in 1995 under what prosecutors claim were fraudulent circumstances to obtain refugee status, Nshimiye has consistently refuted any accusations of involvement in the genocide. His court appearance is scheduled to take place in Boston at a future date.
Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Michael Krol emphasized the severity of Nshimiye’s alleged actions, stating that he attempted to obscure his engagement in one of history’s most catastrophic events. Specifically, during the 2019 trial of Jean Leonard Teganya, a recognized genocide perpetrator, Nshimiye is accused of providing false testimony to hide his criminal activities. Prosecutors contend that Nshimiye actively participated in the violence, employing brutal methods against ethnic Tutsis.
After leaving Rwanda in 1994, Nshimiye is reported to have traveled to Kenya, where he allegedly deceived US immigration authorities to gain entry into the United States. He now faces several charges, including falsification of information, obstruction of justice, and perjury.
David Johnson, representing Nshimiye, has yet to respond to inquiries for comments on the matter.
The Rwandan Genocide, a horrific period in 1994, led to the massacre of approximately 800,000 individuals. Ethnic Hutu extremists targeted the minority Tutsi population and political adversaries, resulting in widespread violence and loss of life over a span of about 100 days.
