Africa-Press – Rwanda. The Gasabo Intermediate Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on May 24 in the case involving businessman Jean Nsabimana, commonly known as ‘Dubai,’ and his co-defendants Stephen Rwamurangwa, Chretien Raymond Mberabahizi, Jeanne d’Arc Nyirabihogo, and Nkulikiyimfura Theopiste.
The defendants are facing charges related to the ‘Urukumbuzi’ real estate, widely recognized as ‘Kwa Dubai.’
During the hearing held on April 26, the court discussed the seizure of Nsabimana’s properties, as requested by the prosecution. The move stirred controversy, with the defense arguing that there had been no previous list of confiscated properties. Additionally, Nsabimana’s wife requested to be considered in the process.
All defendants were present in court, accompanied by their legal representatives. Nsabimana’s legal counsel highlighted alleged obstacles in the confiscation case, arguing the illegality of the property seizure. They challenged the lack of a comprehensive list detailing the confiscated assets since the case’s commencement.
Lawyer Pierre Celestin Kubwimana, representing Nsabimana, raised complaints citing discrepancies in the prosecution’s complaints. He argued that revisions in the complaint led to confusion regarding the charges against his client.
Another lawyer, Jean Marie Vianney Uwitonze, challenged the prosecution’s statements, emphasizing the lack of disclosure regarding seized properties in previous complaints. He questioned the legality of the seizure and called for a fair trial.
The prosecution refuted the claims, arguing that some properties had been seized electronically. They further requested the court to decide on the matter, arguing that the confiscated assets, linked to the charges Nsabimana is being prosecuted for.
The prosecution is seeking the confiscation of Nsabimana’s properties, including 57 plots, four companies, two vehicles, and more than 20 bank accounts.
However, Nsabimana asserted that all of his properties existed before the alleged crimes.
Meanwhile, Lawyer Jean Rugeyo, representing Nsabimana’s wife, highlighted the unfair implications of the prosecution’s seizure. He argued against the inclusion of the wife’s properties in the confiscation, citing her equal rights as Nsabimana’s spouse.
In a separate legal matter, 11 individuals filed a civil suit seeking damages. However, the defense in the ongoing criminal case against a defendant jailed for over a year argued for prioritizing their client’s trial, claiming the civil suit is a recent development.
Therefore, the court ruled to separate the cases and requested those people to file the case separately.
As the trial concluded the court’s verdict is slated for May 24.
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