Full Breakdown
Arrest of Burundian Man Linked to 2014 Murders of Italian Nuns
2/26/2026, 9:34:30 PM
Overview of the Arrest
Italian police have arrested Guillaume Harushimana, a 50-year-old Burundian man, in connection with the murders of three Italian missionary nuns in Bujumbura, Burundi, over ten years ago. Prosecutors in Parma announced the arrest on February 26, 2026, stating that Harushimana is suspected of instigating, co-organizing, and logistically supporting the murders of Olga Rachietti, 83, Lucia Pulici, 75, and Bernadetta Boggian, 79, during two separate attacks on September 7-8, 2014.
Background of the Case
The murders were allegedly ordered by General Adolphe Nshimirimana, who was the head of the Burundi secret police at the time and was assassinated in 2015. Harushimana was one of Nshimirimana's aides. Investigators suggest that the nuns may have been targeted for various reasons, including their refusal to provide medical aid to Burundian militias in the Democratic Republic of Congo, disputes over funding for a youth center in Kamenge, or as part of a sacrificial rite.
Investigation Developments
Italian prosecutors reopened the investigation into the nuns' murders in 2024, prompted by new leads from a book by investigative journalist Giusy Baioni. This led to testimonies from other nuns who had not previously been interviewed by Burundian authorities. Harushimana's name had surfaced in earlier investigations, and he had obtained a travel visa to Italy in 2018 to attend a training course in Parma. At that time, he was questioned but denied involvement, claiming he was outside Burundi during the murders and providing passport stamps as evidence.
Details of the Murders
According to prosecutors, four individuals are suspected of carrying out the killings. Two of these suspects made radio confessions, while a third, identified as the general's bodyguard, was questioned in Parma and partially admitted to the crimes. The fourth suspect remains unidentified. Reports indicate that the attackers entered the nuns' compound disguised in clerical robes and left wearing police uniforms. Disturbingly, it has been reported that two of the victims were raped and decapitated.
Official Statements & Responses
Monica Moschioni, a lawyer appointed to represent Harushimana, stated that she had not yet spoken to him and could not confirm whether he would plead innocent or guilty. Prosecutors have not received a response from Burundian authorities regarding the ongoing investigation.
Criticism & Opposition
The case has drawn attention to the broader issues of violence against religious figures in Burundi and the challenges of prosecuting such crimes across international borders. Critics have pointed out the difficulties in obtaining justice for the victims, given the historical context of political violence in Burundi.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Guillaume Harushimana ?is suspected of having instigated, co-organized and logistically supported the murders of Olga Rachietti, 83, Lucia Pulici, 75, and Bernadetta Boggian, 79, in two separate attacks on September 7-8, 2014.” — Prosecutors in Parma
- “The presumed killers entered the nuns' compound disguised in clerical robes and left wearing police uniforms, prosecutors said.” — Prosecutors in Parma
This arrest marks a significant development in a long-standing case that has remained unresolved for over a decade, highlighting the complexities of international law and justice.
