The incident occurred at approximately 3:18 p.m. Eastern Time (2018 GMT) in the parking lot of Brethren Village in Manheim Township, just south of Lancaster Airport.
Officials stated that the plane had just taken off and was en route to Springfield, Ohio, before going down.
Emergency responders transported all five people onboard the plane to local hospitals. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among people on the ground.
The crash also resulted in significant property damage, with around a dozen vehicles in the parking lot affected. Footage from the scene showed thick black smoke rising from the wreckage as flames engulfed several cars.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into the incident.
Israeli authorities stated on Sunday that the measure is part of broader efforts to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza. According to official figures, 59 hostages remain in captivity, with approximately 24 believed to be alive.
Officials emphasized that all available means would be used to ensure their return and to prevent Hamas from maintaining control in Gaza once the conflict ends.
Since March 2, Israel has also blocked aid shipments, including food, following the expiration of the initial 42-day ceasefire phase.
Negotiations to implement the next phase of the truce continue, with Hamas representatives engaging in talks with Egyptian and U.S. officials, while an Israeli delegation is expected to travel to Doha for further discussions.
Israel had previously cut off electricity, food, medicine, and fuel to Gaza at the start of its military campaign in October 2023, leading to what the United Nations has described as a famine and a catastrophic humanitarian crisis in the enclave.
According to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Prince Kid was taken into custody on March 3, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas.
ICE reported that although he initially entered the U.S. legally, he had been residing in Fort Worth illegally for some time.
The U.S. authorities stated that his arrest was in compliance with an arrest warrant issued by the Rwandan Prosecution on October 29, 2024.
Currently, Ishimwe popularly known as Prince Kid is being held in ICE detention facilities as further decisions regarding his removal from the U.S. are pending.
In October 2023, the Rwandan High Court sentenced Prince Kid to five years in prison after finding him guilty of soliciting sexual favors and rape.
During the ruling, neither Prince Kid nor his legal representatives were present in court, while the prosecution was officially represented.
The judge stated that he originally faced a 16-year prison sentence, but since this was his first legal offense, the sentence was reduced to five years along with a fine of 2 million Rwandan francs.
In November 2023, Lawyer Nyembo Emelyne, Prince Kid’s legal representative, confirmed to IGIHE that they did not appeal the court’s decision.
The charges against Prince Kid stem from allegations of sexual assault involving contestants of the Miss Rwanda pageant, an event he had been organizing for years through his company, Rwanda Inspiration Backup.
He voiced the appreciation on March 7, 2025, after the passout ceremony that saw 438 trained by Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), formally integrated into the CAR armed forces.
“First and foremost, I extend my gratitude to the Government of Rwanda and the people of Rwanda on behalf of the President of the Republic, the Head of State, and the armed forces of the Central African Republic,” he stated.
Moloua highlighted that the high level of expertise demonstrated by the new soldiers during their drills was clear evidence of the quality training they had received, ensuring their ability to safeguard their country and its citizens.
“The Head of State is committed to providing them with the necessary resources to help them restore peace and security in the country. They make me proud,” he added.
The Chief of General Staff of the CAR armed forces, Maj Gen Zéphirin Mamadou, stated that while security had largely been restored in the country, remnants of instability persisted in some areas, where criminals engaged in theft and other violent acts.
Maj Gen Mamadou emphasized that both the newly trained soldiers and those who had previously undergone training had acquired valuable skills thanks to the partnership between CAR and Rwanda.
“When we talk about peace, this is what we mean. We now have well-trained soldiers. Look at these young recruits, they have been trained by our Rwandan friends. You can see their level of preparedness. When they first started, they were civilians, but now, the results are evident.”
The general explained that the training was delivered in various phases, starting with basic military instruction for new recruits, from whom the best 100 to 150 were selected for non-commissioned officer training.
He also mentioned that some CAR soldiers were sent to Rwanda for special forces training, all as part of the ongoing military cooperation between the two nations.
Based on the skills acquired by CAR soldiers, Maj Gen Mamadou expressed confidence that they would successfully counter any threats to national security, as they were now well-prepared and fully equipped for combat.
He made these remarks in an exclusive interview with IGIHE, where he discussed the RDF’s missions in the Central African Republic (CAR), including both its role under the United Nations peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA, and its operations based on bilateral agreements between the two nations.
For the past 30 years, Rwanda’s security has remained unquestionable, with the country even contributing to regional stability. The RDF has played a crucial role in maintaining security in CAR and Mozambique, training thousands of soldiers in these countries to help them safeguard their nations in the future.
The UN peacekeeping mission in CAR began in 2014 and includes troops from various countries. However, Rwandan forces were given key responsibilities, such as protecting the country’s President and First Lady, as well as securing critical infrastructure, including the capital, Bangui, and the main airport.
In the interview, Brig. Gen. Rwivanga provided in-depth insights into these operations and revealed that in the coming days, over 600 soldiers trained by the RDF in Mozambique will complete their training.
{{Excerpts: }}
{{IGIHE: You have visited Rwandan troops stationed in different parts of the Central African Republic, including those under the UN mission. What was the security situation like?}}
{{Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga:}} The security situation is very stable. Our visit had two main purposes. The first was to inspect the Rwandan troops under the UN mission, MINUSCA, as well as those deployed under bilateral agreements.
The second reason was to attend the graduation ceremony of Central African Republic soldiers we have been training.
We have trained three cohorts of CAR soldiers so far. We visited our forces in various locations, including Bria and Bossembélé. The Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, was sent by His Excellency the President of Rwanda to deliver a message to the troops.
{{What was the main message?}}
It was a message of appreciation for their excellent work in ensuring security across the country. Our forces have effectively secured all assigned areas, and as you may have heard, military officials praise the RDF soldiers for their work.
Our troops have been tasked with securing major roads, including those connecting Bangui to Douala in Cameroon and Sudan. They have done this successfully, and local communities have expressed their confidence in our forces.
Another key message was to reassure them that Rwanda remains completely secure and that they should continue their mission without any concerns.
Another main purpose of the agenda was today’s passout of Central African soldiers ceremony that saw the graduation of 438 soldiers, adding to the 1,250 we have already trained in two previous cohorts. This is the third group we have trained, forming a highly specialized rapid response unit.
{{How will this unit operate, and how will you support it?}}
This unit has been built with strong capabilities, ensuring that the local forces will have the capacity to maintain security in the city and assist in other regions, in case we make a decision to withdraw our troops from Bangui, where RDF forces have been deployed since 2020.
The unit is now well-trained. We still have about two more training phases before the unit is fully complete.
{{What’s next after the remaining two training phases?}}
Training will continue as part of a structured plan. Once the unit is fully formed, it will take on its operational responsibilities. It is also possible that we will continue providing support and training even as they begin their work. The unit is already functional in certain locations, carrying out its duties effectively.
{{How do the RDF troops under the UN mission and those deployed through bilateral agreements coordinate their work?}}
The UN peacekeeping troops are responsible for ensuring civilian security, protecting UN personnel, and safeguarding key leaders, including the President. They also secure critical infrastructure, such as the airport.
Meanwhile, the troops deployed under bilateral agreements arrived in 2020 as reinforcements following an attack by François Bozizé and his allies, who attempted to overthrow the democratically elected President of CAR. The President of CAR requested support from Rwanda’s President to stop the attack.
We responded by deploying battle groups that halted the rebel offensive. After securing Bangui, our forces shifted their focus to training CAR troops to help them develop independent security capabilities.
We are now in the final phase of that mission, ensuring that local forces are fully equipped to maintain security once international forces leave.
{{What gives you confidence in the new recruits’ readiness after witnessing today’s graduation?}}
There are three key aspects. The first and most important is discipline. During training, we emphasize that military skills alone are not enough—discipline is what determines the success or failure of an army. It is evident that forces collapse because of indiscipline.
Of course, technical skills are also crucial, but discipline and strong leadership are fundamental. We have instilled these values in the troops we train.
{{Beyond CAR, the RDF is also deployed in Mozambique. What is the security situation there?}}
The situation is very stable. As you may recall, additional RDF troops were deployed there. We took over areas that were previously controlled by SADC forces, particularly in Macomia.
Initially, we were securing only Palma and Mocímboa da Praia, but due to the confidence the Mozambican leadership had in us, we were asked to expand operations.
When the Southern African Development Community mission (SAMIM) withdrew from Macomia, insurgents were still present, especially in Katupa, a dense forest like Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest. We launched operations that successfully drove them out.
We also conducted operations along coastal areas, further weakening the insurgents. While some minor security incidents still occur, we are continuously addressing them.
{{What’s next in Cabo Delgado?}}
We are now focused on restructuring the security forces and training Mozambique’s army. The first intake of 600 soldiers is set to complete their training in Nacala soon, and we will be there to oversee their graduation. We are making significant progress in this mission.
{{Recently, there has been tension in neighboring countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. What assurance can you give Rwandans?}}
We want to reassure Rwandans that the country is completely secure. Our borders are well-guarded. Previous threats along the border have been neutralized—ever since M23 took control of certain areas, we have had no further security issues on our borders.
This means that our security is intact. Our troops are effectively protecting the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. That was part of our message to the forces, ensuring that they know Rwanda is safe.
People can sleep peacefully. As for those who threatened in the past, we all saw how that turned out for them, they achieved nothing.
The update was revealed on March 7, 2025, during the commemoration of National School Feeding Day.
Rwanda is celebrating a decade since the launch of the school feeding program, which initially targeted secondary school students before expanding to include primary schools.
When the initiative began, it had a budget of Frw4 billion. Over time, funding has significantly increased, reaching Frw90 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year.
Education Minister Nsengimana Joseph noted that before the program’s introduction, many students faced challenges such as long commutes, requiring them to go home for lunch and return late, which hindered their learning.
He emphasized that since the program started in 2014, students no longer encounter such obstacles, and many who had dropped out due to food insecurity have returned to school.
“When this program was introduced, we saw many students who had left school come back. It has played a crucial role in ensuring that all children have access to education and can focus on their studies,” he said.
He added that the initiative has also encouraged parents to enroll their children in school on time. Previously, some parents delayed school enrollment due to concerns about their children going hungry, increasing the risk of dropouts.
Gloria Umurerwa, a parent, said the program has significantly reduced the burden on families who previously struggled to provide lunch for their children.
“Now, I can go about my daily work without worrying about my child’s lunch. Knowing they are well-fed at school brings peace of mind. This initiative has been a great relief for many of us,” she said.
The national celebration took place at G.S Kigali, where schools that efficiently managed their budgets and implemented sustainable initiatives, such as growing their own fruits and vegetables, were recognized.
Top-performing schools at the district level received Frw800,000, while those excelling at the provincial level were awarded Frw2 million.
A total of 438 trainees completed the program, which covered key military skills, including enemy detection, combat strategies, map reading, and field training.
The graduation ceremony, held at Kasai Military Camp, was attended by high-ranking officials, including RDF Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi and CAR’s Prime Minister Félix Moloua, who served as the guest of honor. The soldiers had undergone six months of intensive training.
Among the graduates was 19-year-old Wassialo Nzeti, who joined the military due to her country’s ongoing security challenges. She emphasized the critical role of youth in nation-building.
“When there is security, the nation prospers. The training we received was far superior to what was previously available in our military,” she said.
Nzeti particularly valued lessons in map reading, combat tactics, and weapons handling.
“I will remain in the military because I am passionate about security matters. I will also encourage others to join since security is the foundation of everything. What I admired most about RDF is their discipline, dedication, and professionalism.”
Another graduate, Wanda Choisi, praised the training for its focus on discipline and practical skills.
“One of the most valuable lessons was map reading. Before this training, I had never studied it, but now I have mastered it, and it will be crucial in my duties.”
The newly trained soldiers have been assigned to a specialized unit responsible for rapid response in critical situations.
Maj Gen Nyakarundi expressed confidence in their ability to apply their training effectively to protect CAR.
“I trust that the skills you have acquired will be used to confront threats rather than harm the citizens you are sworn to protect. Today, you stand before us as soldiers committed to defending your country with courage,” he noted.
Maj Gen Nyakarundi acknowledged the rigorous nature of the training, emphasizing that discipline and hard work were essential in preparing them to become competent soldiers.
He also extended gratitude to the leadership of both Rwanda and CAR, as well as the military commanders of RDF and FACA, for their support in making the program a success.
Maj Gen Nyakarundi reaffirmed RDF’s commitment to training CAR soldiers, noting that 159 personnel had recently undergone advanced training, with another cohort set to begin training in the coming month.
Among the 438 graduates, 38 were women, reflecting a growing role for female soldiers in CAR’s military.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Zayirwa Jean Marie Vianney (30), Havugiyaremye Innocent (37), Ndayishimiye Phenias (34), Habimana Rachid (31), and Ukwigize Obedi (30).
The incident occurred in Gasabo District, Remera Sector, Nyarutarama Cell, specifically in Gishushu Village.
The suspects are facing charges including forming or joining a criminal gang, theft using force or threats, and aggravated theft.
RIB Spokesperson, Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, confirmed that the crime took place on January 29, 2025.
“On January 29, 2025, a Chinese national reported a robbery in which more than Frw50 million, two laptops, a mobile phone, a checkbook, and a passport were stolen,” stated Dr. Murangira.
Following investigations, RIB arrested the five suspects and recovered part of the stolen funds.
Among the recovered items were Frw7,597,700, $17,212, 110 Chinese Yuan, 39,900 Burundian Francs, and various other currencies. The total value of the recovered funds exceeded Frw31.5 million. Additionally, the victim regained possession of his laptops, mobile phone, and camera.
The suspects are currently being held at the RIB station in Kicukiro. Their case was officially submitted to court on February 19, 2025.
RIB has extended its gratitude to individuals who provided crucial information leading to the arrests. Dr. Murangira reiterated RIB’s commitment to combating crime.
“RIB reminds individuals engaging in criminal activities that they will not succeed. We, alongside other law enforcement agencies, remain committed to fighting crimes such as forming or joining criminal gangs, theft using force, and robbery. We encourage the public to report any suspicious activities. Criminal acts will not be tolerated, and offenders will be brought to justice,” he stated.
According to Article 224 of the Rwandan Penal Code, forming or joining a criminal gang carries a prison sentence ranging from seven to ten years.
Theft involving force or threats, as per Article 168, is punishable by a prison term of five to seven years and a fine between Frw3,000,000 and 5,000,000.
Simple theft, under Article 166, is subject to imprisonment of one to two years, a fine between Frw1,000,000 and 2,000,000, or six months of community service, or a combination of these penalties.
It is necessary to maintain a certain level of economic growth to ensure stable employment, mitigate risks and improve people’s livelihoods, Huang Lianghao, an official with the Research Office of the State Council, said in the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency.
Since China introduced a comprehensive package of incremental policies last year, the economy has experienced a significant rebound, and this positive trend has been further consolidated and expanded since the beginning of this year, said Huang.
Over the years, the country has accumulated many positive factors and favorable conditions for growth, he said, adding that new technological breakthroughs are emerging at a faster pace, new industries and growth drivers are accelerating, and domestic demand is expanding rapidly, all of which lay a solid foundation for future development.
Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday announced the annual economic growth target when delivering the government work report to the annual session of the National People’s Congress for deliberation.
According to the report, China will adopt a more proactive fiscal policy and a moderately loose monetary policy, which Huang said will provide strong policy support for economic growth.
The moderately loose monetary policy will help lower corporate financing costs and enhance liquidity, said Jin Li, a national political advisor and vice president of Southern University of Science and Technology.
Emerging industries and consumer sectors, including artificial intelligence, low-altitude economy and digital economy, are expected to receive stronger support, injecting new vitality into China’s high-quality economic development, said Jin.
Domestic demand is a “home market that will not move away,” and its growth will increase the country’s market capacity and bolster economic circulation, according to Huang Lianghao, an official of the Research Office of the State Council.
Huang made the remarks while discussing this year’s government work report, which was submitted to the national legislature for deliberation on Wednesday. Domestic demand will be made the main engine and anchor of economic growth, according to the report.
“We should adopt a comprehensive approach and identify key areas to unleash all potential of domestic demand,” the official said.
Increasing spending power is one of the key measures to boost consumption outlined in the report. According to Huang, this is the most fundamental task aiming to ensure that people have enough money to spend.
Huang also called for efforts to address the most pressing issues hindering consumption, as well as to improve the overall consumption experience and boost people’s willingness to spend.
