Ottawa man believed to be living in Canada under false identity for 30 years arrested by RCMP

An RCMP epaulette is seen in Edmonton, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

The RCMP say an Ottawa man has been arrested following a lengthy investigation into allegations of immigration fraud.

Mounties say the investigation began on Dec. 23, 2021, after members of the RCMP’s Sensitive and International Investigations unit received a tip that someone believed to have been living in Canada since 1996 under a false identity was the subject of an international arrest warrant issued by Rwandan authorities.

“The warrant was related to allegations concerning the individual’s role in the 1994 Genocide in Rwanda. The investigation involved extensive operational and investigative efforts, as well as significant international cooperation,” the RCMP said in a release on Thursday.

The Rwandan genocide took place over 100 days in 1994. An estimated 800,000 Tutsis were killed by Hutu extremists.

Charged with 16 offences

The RCMP said Roland Nduwayo, 68, of Ottawa was arrested on Monday after returning to Canada from abroad. He was charged with 16 offences under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

“Investigations stemming from international criminal allegations frequently involve complex investigative and legal considerations, as well as significant international cooperation,” said RCMP Supt. Jeremie Landry.

“This investigation demonstrates the RCMP’s commitment to addressing immigration fraud and identity-related offences through coordinated domestic and international investigative efforts conducted in accordance with Canadian law.”

Mounties say the investigation involved collaboration with the Canada Border Services Agency, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, and the Department of Justice Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Section.

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