Case Involving Prophet Joshua and Four Others Referred to Prosecution

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has officially submitted to the National Public Prosecution Authority a criminal case involving five individuals, including Heradi Sefu Josué, popularly known as Prophet Joshua, who are accused of offenses related to the devaluation of the national currency.

The information was confirmed by RIB Spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, who stated that the case file was handed over to prosecutors on December 23, 2025.

Individuals Facing Charges

Those named in the case include Mbabazi Winny, Niyigena Deborah, Murekatete Alice, Umutesi Salima Linda, and Heradi Sefu Josué (Prophet Joshua).

According to investigators, all five are accused of acts that undermine the value of the national currency, while Prophet Joshua faces an additional charge of failure to explain the lawful source of his wealth.

Legal Basis of the Charges

The four suspects—Mbabazi Winny, Niyigena Deborah, Murekatete Alice, and Umutesi Salima Linda—are charged under Article 221 of Law No. 68/2018 of August 30, 2018, which governs crimes and penalties in Rwanda.

If convicted of currency devaluation, the law provides for:

Imprisonment ranging from one to two years, and

A fine between RWF 1 million and RWF 3 million.

Additional Charges Against Prophet Joshua

Prophet Joshua, whose legal name is Heradi Sefu Josué, is facing two criminal charges:

Devaluing the national currency, and
Failure to justify the source of his wealth.

Rwandan law stipulates that anyone found guilty of failing to explain the lawful origin of their assets faces:

A prison sentence of seven to ten years, and
A fine ranging from three to five times the value of the unexplained assets.

Case Now Before Prosecution

With the investigation phase completed, the matter now lies with the Prosecution Authority, which will determine whether to proceed to trial. As required by law, all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.

The case underscores Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to enforce financial laws and ensure accountability in matters related to economic integrity.