Rwandan citizen indicted of genocide is to be extradited from Norway to Rwanda

On 10th October 2012 the Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security decided to extradite a person to Rwanda where he will be prosecuted for his complicity in the 1994 Genocide.

Norway received a request for extradition of the Rwandan citizen in July 2010. In November 2011 the Norwegian Supreme Court concluded that there are no legal obstacles preventing extradition of the accused. The Ministry awaited its decision on the question on extradition until the Norwegian Immigration Authorities had concluded their examination of the person’s residence application.

The Ministry acknowledges the very important and difficult work being done by Rwandan authorities in holding persons responsible for the 1994 Genocide, including the reforms and changes in Rwandan laws on transfer and extradition that have been introduced.

If the Ministry’s decision remains final, the accused may be handed over to Rwandan authorities during this autumn. If so, it may be the first time a European country extradites a person indicted of genocide to Rwanda.

The Ministry’s decision may be appealed to the King in Council.