An unarmed member of the Rwandan VIP security detail inadvertently encountered security agents of the DRC delegation in a public hotel hallway. Both delegations were staying at the same hotel.

The Rwandan officer was briefly prevented from accessing the elevator by the DRC agents, an action described by the Embassy as inappropriate and unprofessional, as the area was accessible to all guests. The matter was quickly resolved without escalation.

Afterward, the Rwandan delegation decided to change hotels. As they checked out and departed, they were reportedly harassed and filmed by unknown individuals. Despite this, the Rwandan team remained calm, professional, and avoided confrontation.

The Embassy condemned what it called a “gross misrepresentation” of the events, noting that the DRC Minister of Information spread false statements during a press conference.

“These contemptible lies should be disregarded and condemned,” said Deputy Chief of Mission Arthur Asiimwe, emphasizing the professionalism and restraint shown by the Rwandan delegation throughout the incident.

The Embassy called for responsible reporting and stressed the importance of maintaining diplomatic integrity.