The arrest of the traditional healer, on Monday, followed tips to Police by residents, Police in Ngoma said. The suspect is detained at Sake Police Station, while the body of the victim was taken to Kibungo Hospital for post-mortem.

It is alleged that the victim, whom Police said is a resident of Gatsibo district, had spent more than two weeks at the suspect's home.

Habinshuti is said to have been suffering from a mental ailment for about nine years. He allegedly visited the traditional healer for treatment on February 7.

The District Police Commander, Christian Safari, said they first want to ascertain the cause of the victim's death.

"He [the suspect] is not an accredited traditional doctor and it is the first time such a case is reported in the district," said CIP Safari.

Traditional healers are accredited by the Ministry of Health after meeting the requirements to practice.