Vally Amisi Murder Suspect Arrested in Brazzaville Pending Transfer

Brazzaville / Kinshasa, August 4, 2026 - Justice Minister Guillaume Ngefa announced on Sunday the arrest in Brazzaville of Mukena Mwepu Benie in the probe into the death of sports entrepreneur Vally Amisi, found dead on April 10, 2026, in Gombe, Kinshasa. The arrest followed judicial cooperation between the DRC and the Republic of the Congo, with transfer formalities toward Kinshasa under way. The ministry stressed the presumption of innocence and said facts initially framed as a kidnapping are under a judicial inquiry that may carry several legal qualifications.

The investigation into Amisi's murder began after initial reports suggested a kidnapping. However, the case may involve multiple legal qualifications as new evidence emerges. An unverified video circulating online purportedly shows Benie admitting to receiving a weapon and bringing Amisi to an apartment where others awaited. In the video, he claims responsibility for the murder, stating he killed Amisi and later disposed of the body. The authenticity of this video remains unconfirmed, and its implications for the case are yet to be assessed.

On Monday, Joel Amisi, the victim’s brother, recounted travelling to Brazzaville after a tip via “Mamu International” and local police, including Interpol. He said he saw the suspect through a grille and that the man looked down after being addressed. Brazzaville authorities indicated a transfer toward Kinshasa might be possible within about two days, without a firm date.

In a separate legal matter, the Kikwit garrison military court held its third hearing on July 29, 2026, concerning Private Ayilu Boniface Dido, who faces charges of alleged rape of 14-year-old Mbwanki Wivine, as well as intentional wounding and intent to kill. Dido admitted seriously wounding the minor’s face and cited jealousy; he denied intent to kill. The defense is seeking to have the intent-to-kill and rape charges dropped, while the prosecution is advocating for a heavy penalty. The court has ordered a check on Dido's phone records for contacts with the victim's mother, and the case was adjourned to August 4, 2026, for further proceedings.